An automated X-ray inspection system for measuring "hidden" insect infestation in grain

An increased public awareness of the importance of a clean, wholesome food supply has focused attention on the problem of preventing and controlling insect infestation. Stored-grain insects feed and develop inside the kernels during part or all of their life cycle. Grain that may appear to be in good condition from casual inspection may contain enough internal infestation to render it unfit for human food. Early detection of "hidden" insects is essential for control of insects as well as for determining the wholesomeness of the grain for human consumption. The research reported in this dissertation has resulted in the development of three inspection methods. The first method, a flotation method, fails to be highly accurate and fails to detect young larval and egg stages of "hidden" insect infestation. Therefore, its use would be unsuitable for grain grading or for research where more accurate methods are needed. It would provide farmers and grain warehouse operators with a quick simple method for estimating the level of infestation in grain. The second method, a radiographic process, is highly accurate and would be useful to researchers and manufacturers who require a critical appraisal of grain quality for the production of such products as baby food. The third method is an automated procedure which would be more useful for routine inspection of grain by inspection laboratories, storage operators and transport companies. ..