An investigation into electrical treatment methods for the processing of tobacco leaves

Three methods of electrical treatment for the processing of tobacco leaves - electric sparks, electric currents and electric arcs have been studied. T he three methods used both alternating and direct currents applied longitud inally along the main vein. The result of the investigations into the degre e of damage to the vegetal tissues and the chemical analyses of the dried t obacco subsequently produced are presented. It was established that the mos t efficient method is the electric spark treatment supplied from a rectifie d source. (C) 2000 Silsoe Research Institute.