Energy and Mass Balance in Storing Seed Potato Tubers Using a Para-Para System
The Para-Para System Storage Study for seed potato tubers analyzes energy and mass balance by comparing different types of aeration, both with and without sunlight exposure. The study measures air temperature, humidity, weight loss, heat of respiration, light intensity, tuber growth, shelf arrangement, fan flow rate and water evaporation to optimize storage efficiency and quality. Improving these conditions increases shelf life and minimizes tuber damage.
by jorge Luis Alonso with ChatGPT-4o
To write the following article, I used this prompt:
Imagine you’re a farmer researching new methods for storing seed potatoes. Write an engaging summary that highlights the significant benefits of using the para-para storage system based on the research in the provided paper. Focus on how this system improves storage efficiency, maintains tuber quality, and increases seed potato viability.
Improve seed potato storage: The benefits of the Para-Para system
Effective storage of seed potatoes is critical to maintaining their viability and quality. Traditional storage methods, which often result in significant tuber loss, underscore the need for improved systems. The para-para storage system explored in recent research offers promising advances in storage efficiency, tuber quality maintenance and seed viability.
Introduction to the Para-Para System
The para-para system is a multi-shelf storage method traditionally used for various agricultural commodities. In this system, potato tubers are stored on wooden shelves with controlled aeration and lighting conditions. The research conducted on this system aimed to analyze the heat and mass transfer during storage, focusing on different aeration methods and their effects on potato quality.
Storage efficiency
A major advantage of the para-para system is its ability to increase storage efficiency through effective aeration. The system uses both natural and forced aeration, with airflow rates carefully regulated to optimize conditions around the stored tubers. Forced aeration, with a flow rate of 3.14 m³/sec, proved particularly effective in maintaining lower and more stable air temperatures around the potatoes compared to natural aeration. This regulation of airflow helps to dissipate the heat generated by tuber respiration, preventing the build-up of excess heat that can accelerate spoilage.
In addition, the design of the para-para system, with its specific arrangement of shelves and spacing, ensures better air circulation. This design reduces the risk of hot spots where tubers can overheat or experience uneven humidity levels, common problems in traditional storage methods where tubers are stacked on the floor or in large baskets.
Maintaining tuber quality
Maintaining the quality of seed potatoes during storage is essential to ensure they are viable for planting. The para-para system excels in this regard by providing an environment that reduces weight loss and minimizes tuber damage. The study found that the para-para system, particularly with forced aeration and natural aeration without sunlight, resulted in lower weight loss compared to traditional methods. The average weight loss ranged from 1.78% to 1.86%, significantly less than traditional storage losses.
The system also helps control humidity levels, which is critical to maintaining tuber firmness and preventing sprouting. Optimal humidity levels of 70–85% were maintained, reducing the likelihood of microbial growth and spoilage. The controlled environment also ensures that the tubers do not lose excessive moisture, which can lead to desiccation and reduced quality.
Increase seed potato viability
Seed potato viability is a critical factor for growers as it directly affects the quality of the subsequent crop. The Para-Para system has been shown to significantly improve seed potato viability. In the study, the forced aeration with natural light (ANSL) treatment produced seed potatoes with the highest growth quality, achieving a 94.7% success rate in apical shoot growth. This high viability rate is attributed to the stable conditions provided by the para-para system, which supports tubers through their dormancy period and prepares them for successful planting.
The system’s ability to control light exposure also plays a role in maintaining viability. Too much light can break dormancy prematurely, while too little can inhibit emergence. The balanced light exposure of the Para-Para system ensures that tubers remain dormant until they are ready to be planted, preserving their energy and vitality.
Conclusion
The Para-Para Storage System represents a significant advancement in seed potato storage. Its ability to increase storage efficiency through effective aeration, maintain tuber quality by controlling temperature and humidity, and increase seed potato viability makes it an invaluable tool for growers. By adopting the para-para system, farmers can reduce losses, ensure better quality seed potatoes and ultimately achieve higher yields from their potato crops. This innovative approach not only addresses the shortcomings of traditional storage methods but also paves the way for more sustainable and productive potato farming practices.
Source: Pudja, Rina & Harsojuwono, Bambang & Setiyo, Yohanes & Gunadnya, ida bagus putu. (2024). Energy and Mass Balance in Storing Seed Potato Tubers Using a Para-Para System. Tuijin Jishu/Journal of Propulsion Technology. 45. 2282–2298.
For more research on potato storage, click here: https://bit.ly/3u8OCtU.
