Seed quality of jatropha under different drying air conditions

Abstract

The post-harvest drying of jatropha is the most frequently used process to ensure quality and stability. The aim of this work was to analyze the seed drying of jatropha and check the effect of air conditions on seed quality, through electrical conductivity, water absorption germination test and index of germination velocity (IGV). Drying was done in an experimental drier, testing controlled temperatures of 30; 40; 50; 60 and 70 °C, in a randomized design with four replications. It was found that increasing the temperature of the drying air increases the damage on the seeds of jatropha, but does not interfere with water absorption of the product. The germination is high even at the highest drying temperature, with values above 91% and IVG did not show statistical differences. Therefore, it was concluded that the physiological quality of seeds of Jatropha curcas is affected by drying temperature.