Physical and Mechanical Properties of Some Hybrid Corn Varieties

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the structural designing parameters of silo and bins used for storage of some hybrid corn varieties (Zea mays L.). In the research, three corn varieties-dentcorn (Zea mays indentata Sturt.), popcorn (Zea mays everta Sturt.), sweetcorn (Zea mays sacharata Sturt.)-widespread cultivated in Turkey were used. Physico-mechanical parameters (bulk density, true density, angle of internal friction, static coefficient of friction) were considered as the dependent variables, and moisture content (8%, 10%, 12%, 14%) as the independent variable. The bulk density, true density and angle of internal friction varied from 608.46 to 856.46 kg/m3, 950.88 to 1110.89 kg/m3, 25.2°to 34.2°, respectively, with the increase in moisture content from 8% to 14%. According to results of the research, the highest average value for bulk density, true density, angle of internal friction were found in popcorn variety (839.17 kg/m3), popcorn variety (1 074.40 kg/m3), sweetcorn variety (30.50°), respectively. The highest average value for static coefficient of friction at concrete surface (C30) was recorded in dentcorn variety (0.662).