TECHNOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF PEANUT

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the main physical–mechanical and technological properties of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) kernels. The geometric dimensions, mass, density, moisture content, surface characteristics, and mechanical strength of agricultural products play a crucial role in ensuring efficient cultivation, processing, and storage operations. During the experimental investigation, the kernel length, width, thickness, thousand-kernel weight, bulk density, true density, and porosity were determined. In addition, important technological parameters such as the coefficient of friction, angle of repose, and resistance to mechanical damage were evaluated under laboratory conditions using experimental methods. The obtained results provide a scientific basis for substantiating the design parameters of agricultural machinery used in peanut planting, sorting, transportation, and storage processes. In particular, these characteristics are essential for selecting the dimensions of seed-metering channels in seeding units, designing receiving hoppers, and determining optimal storage conditions in warehouses. The findings contribute to the improvement of peanut cultivation technology, enhancement of mechanization efficiency, and improvement of product quality.