Okushko O. Defense of Thesis Work on Parameters and Modes of Plant Processing by Corona Discharge

Subject of the research - plant (fruit and vegetable) processing in the electric field by corona discharge. The aim of the research - increase in efficiency of long term plant (fruit and vegetable) storage by direct corona discharge to the product in the electric field prior to product canning. Methods: theoretical explanation of reaction and effect of the processing parameters on the weight loss and quality of fruit and vegetable products was performed, applying methods of mathematical modeling. Experimental research was done both with an application of general and specially (proprietary) developed methods, applying mathematical methods and principles of planningtheory. The processing was performed by mathematically-statistical methods, based on the application of computer programs, applying regression and variance methods of analysis. The novelty and originality - necessity and relevance of application of aeroionization processing of fruit and vegetable products with compulsory air injection in the zone of aeroionization are theoretically justified and proven by experiments, type and parameters of high tension source is explained. Based on the laws of electric field and physical phenomena which emerge in the electric field the results were obtained that significantly broaden the understanding about possibility to increase efficiency with the help of aeroionization processing due to air ions settling on the surface of the processed product. A mathematical model of distribution of bioelectric product potential during the aeroionization processing which causes the possibility to regulate and forecast of processing efficiency, to determine the weight loss and to determine the quality of the product during the long term storage. Correlation between processing parameters and weight loss was determined; regression models of regulation of weight loss were obtained. For the first time, parameters of factors of influence on the technological process of aeroionization processing were defined and classified; structure of the processing scheme was developed; a set of technological and regime factors was determined that influences on the efficiency of the process; prerequisites for optimization of the technological process were set out. Results of the research - the method of forecast of product storage was developed; technological process and technical means for its fulfillment were elaborated, based on the regimes of processing. The results of the research are implemented in the educational process. The branch of application is agriculture.