Project Number: 5302-43000-031-02
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 15, 2000
End Date: Sep 14, 2005

Objective:
Develop an economical system using microwaves or radio-frequency heating to disinfest postharvest walnuts of insect pests. Project also will demonstrate the efficacy of the system to processors, and document the effect of the method on product quality.

Approach:
Using a heating block apparatus developed by cooperators, the exposures needed to kill all relevant stages of naval orangeworm and indianmeal moth at different temperatures will be determined. The dielectric properties of target insects will also be determined. The temperature-time combinations estimated t disinfest product will be used to develop microwaves and radiofrequency treatments. The efficacy of these treatments will be evaluated using both artificially and naturally infested product. The effect of the treatments on product quality will be carefully documented, and will include measuring free fatty acid levels and peroxide values. Documents Reimbursable with WSU (IFAFS Grant). Log 19257. Formerly 5302-43000-026-04R; 5/2003.

Project Team

Johnson, Judy

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001