Evaluation of physical properties of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) pods with different structural characteristics.

The physical properties of the four samples of okra pods from Suez (S), Kafer Elsheigh (K), Mansoura (M), Dakahlia (D) were presented. However, there are no detailed studies concerning the physical dried okra fruit. Geometric properties, gravimetric properties and frictional properties were determined at 86.69% (S), 84.67% (K), 87.65% (M) and 85.83% (D) moisture content. For gravimetric properties, the values of mass, one thousand okra pods mass, true, bulk densities, porosity and density ratio of four okra pod varieties were established between 0.40-0.53 g, 294.72-502.94 g, 359.88-392.50 kg/m³, 266.76-301.90 kg/m³, 70.20-84.69% and 15.31-29.80%, respectively. For frictional properties, the values of coefficients of statistic and kinetic friction on 10 structural surfaces and angle of repose were established in between 29.18-44.88, 0.46-0.77 and 22.29-37.77 degree, respectively. These properties are necessary for the design of equipments for harvesting, processing, transportation, cleaning, sorting, sizing, separating and packing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]