Physical Properties of Rough and Brown Rice of Japonica, Indica and NERICA Types

Abstract

This research involved a study of the physical properties of rough and brown rice of various types. The effect of kernel thickness on physical properties was analyzed. Fundamental physical properties, such as dimensions, mass, and frictional characteristics, were measured for different fractions of rough and brown rice of seven different varieties: Nanatsuboshi, Yumepirika, Oborozuki (Japonica type), IR-28, IR-50, IR-64 (Indica type), and NERICA-4 (NERICA type). Results showed that, in both rough and brown rice, the physical properties of the NERICA type showed a closer relationship with the Indica type than they did with the Japonica type. Moreover, statistical analysis indicated that the physical properties were affected by kernel thickness within each variety of rough and brown rice, information that could be helpful in designing facilities and machines required for rice processing and storage.