Sensing Moisture in Peanut and Pecan Kernels by RF Impedance Measurements

The moisture contents of individual peanut and pecan kernels are determined by computation from complex impedance measurements at two frequencies between 1 and 5 MHz on a parallel-plate capacitor with the kernel held between and in contact with the plates. The technique provides moisture contents with standard errors ofless than 1% moisture content. Application of the method could provide both a reduction in energy required for processing and improved product quality.