Evaluation of Husk properties of Hybrid Coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha

Author: Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, C.M. Panda and A.K. Karna

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Abstract

An experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Konark, Odisha to evaluate the husk properties of hybrid coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in littoral sandy soil of Odisha. The study was conducted during July 2020 to June 2022 following Randomized Block Design with 14 coconut germplasms including hybrids and tall high yielding varieties. The husk of the coconut is an important by product with numerous potential applications in various industries. This study involved a comprehensive analysis of the physical characteristics of the coconut husk to assess its potential for various industrial applications. The maximum average husk thickness was observed in MYD × ECT (2.99 cm) and the maximum husk weight was recorded in ECT (903.40 g per nut). The maximum husk thickness from proximal end was found in GBGD × ECT (7.09 cm). The maximum husk thickness from distal end was found in COD × WCT (4.31 cm). The maximum husk thickness from thick side was found in MYD × ECT (2.99 cm) and the maximum husk thickness from thin side was found in MYD × ECT (2.01 cm). It was also revealed from the experiment that at the pedicel-end and the apex-end coconuts were found to be thicker. But, at the centre, coconut husk was found to be thinner. This would help in deciding the minimum length of the piercing end of any coconut husking tool. The evaluation of husk properties of hybrid coconuts grown in littoral sandy soil of Odisha demonstrates their suitability for a range of industrial applications.

Keywords

Coconut husk, hybrid coconuts, littoral sandy soil, Odisha, physical properties, industrial applications

Conclusion

For designing new innovative husking mechanisms, it is important to know the physical and mechanical properties of coconut. The study revealed that there was a significant difference in husk thickness at different positions of the coconut. This difference was found to be present at the pedicel-end, center and the apex-end. At the pedicel-end and the apex-end coconuts were found to be thicker. But, at the centre, coconut husk was found to be thinner. This would help in deciding the minimum length of the piercing end of any coconut husking tool. The evaluation of husk properties of hybrid coconuts grown in littoral sandy soil of Odisha demonstrates their suitability for a range of industrial applications. The physical characteristics indicate potential uses in composite materials, paper and pulp industries, biofuel production, and soil amendment. These findings contribute to sustainable utilization of coconut byproducts, thereby enhancing the economic value of coconut cultivation in Odisha and promoting a circular economy. Further research is recommended to explore processing techniques, optimization of husk properties, and pilot-scale trials for specific industrial applications, thereby enhancing the economic and environmental sustainability of the coconut industry in Odisha.

References

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How to cite this article

Pradyot Kumar Nayak, S.C Sahoo, S.C. Swain, C.M. Panda and A.K. Karna (2022). Evaluation of Husk properties of Hybrid Coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivated in Littoral Sandy Soil of Odisha. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 14(4): 1325-1328.