Mechanical properties characterization of spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica)

Abstract

To collect data about machines operational performance looking for a better efficiency and setup of equipment’s in characterization of plant tissue field, is the majority importance in this research work. The engine parts and plants components interaction is the cause of tissue rupture and must be explained by mathematical models. In this present research work the methods knew as linear elasticity or generalized Hooke’s law was employed. The main of this research was to characterize mechanically spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) as tensile strength and resistance to penetration. Other mechanical properties were collected as a) modulus of elasticity or Young's modulus, E. b) modulo-v Poisson. c) modulus of transverse elasticity-G. d) bulk modulus - k. The specimens were analyzed in a universal machine strain rate with compression velocity of 0.3 mm / s. The data collection was performed at 10 Hz. The tensile and penetration tests were performed using samples with four water content levels. The first one was 24 hours, the second one was 96 third was 192 hours after harvesting.