Moisture-Dependent Kernel- and Bulk-Density Relationships for Wheat and Corn

ABSTRACT BULK densities and kernel densities of seven lots of hard red winter wheat and 21 lots of shelled, yellow-dent field corn were measured over moisture-content ranges of 3 to 24 percent and 10 to 35 percent, respective-ly. Resulting data, averaged over all lots, are presented graphically, and third-order and fourth-order polynominal equations are given that describe the kernel-density and bulk-density dependence on moisture content. The grain density-moisture relationships shown are consistent with relationships reported previously for narrower moisture ranges and different grain lots. The kernel density and bulk density of both wheat and corn were linearly and highly correlated, except for corn of moisture contents above 30 percent. Linear relationships were observed between corn kernel weight and moisture content, as expected, and between kernel volume and moisture content. Data presented are useful for predict-ing kernel volume fractions and porosity, as well as test weights and kernel densities at different grain moisture contents.