Physical and thermal properties of three sweetpotato cultivars (Ipomoea batatas L.)

Physical and thermal properties of three commonly grown sweetpotato cultiva rs were evaluated. Density, specific heat, thermal conductivity, and respir ation rate were determined for 'Beauregard', 'Hernandez', and 'Jewel' varie ties. In addition, respiration heat and thermal diffusivity were calculated for these cultivars. Uncured and cured sweet potato were evaluated and hel d under controlled storage conditions. Postharvest treatment and cultivar d ifferences had minor effects on the density, specific heat, and thermal con ductivity of sweetpotato. Respiration rate of the uncured and cured sweetpo tato was evaluated at four temperatures: 15, 20, 25, and 30 degreesC. Respi ration rate and respiration heat for the cured sweetpotato was less than th at of the uncured sweet potatoes. Results from this study will be instrumen tal in the design and optimization of sweetpotato curing and storage facili ties and in the development of new quality indicators.