Effect of moisture content on some physical properties of mucuna bean seed

The effect of moisture content on some physical properties of mucuna bean seed as a pre-requisite for the design of processing machines was studied. A vernier caliper with 0.02 mm accuracy was used to measure the major, intermediate and minor diameter of the seed. Results were analysed using regression models. At moisture level range of 4.79 to 18.53% (dry basis), the gravimetrical and geometrical properties of the seed decreased as moisture content increased. The weight of the seed ranged between 5.47 to 9.42 g on the moisture level tested. The minor, intermediate and minor diameters of the seed were obtained as 25.15 to 32.77, 24.23 to 31.09, 15.11 to 23.50 mm, respectively. The surface area and volume of the seed ranged between 13.68 to 33.04 cm² and 48.49 to 113.37 cm³, respectively. The seed showed properties similar to a sphere based on values obtained for its sphericity and roundness. Mathematical expressions relating the variables were established and it was observed that the physical properties of the seed showed positive correlation with moisture content (dry basis).