Project Number: 5430-44000-015-10
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 01, 2005
End Date: Aug 31, 2006

Objective:
Develop a single kernel hardness reference method that can also serve as a reference method for the SKCS 4100. This will answer questions regarding hardness measurements of hard and soft white wheat, define the measurement error attributed to the SKCS 4100 when measuring hardness, and improve the SKCS calibrations.

Approach:
We will collect bulk samples of ground wheat and determine the particle size index for wheat hardness. We will then run these same samples through a particle size analyzer to establish a particle size distribution curve that corresponds to the hardness definitions of this bulk sample method. Samples would include those whose hardness classifications are currently being questioned by the wheat industry. We will then select single kernels with a varying range of hardness values, crush each kernel through SKCS 4100, grind each kernel through a Quadrumat Jr. mill, and determine the particle size distribution using a laser particle size analyzer. We will then determine the hardness of each kernel by relating the PSD to the bulk sample PSD curve. This will be repeated for about 500 kernels. We will then use this information to improve the SKCS 4100 hardness classification, particularly for white wheat.