Ajit K. Srivastava, PhD, P.E.
Professor and Chairperson
215 Farrall Hall
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323
(517) 353-7268
Fax: (517) 432-2892
srivasta@msu.edu
Teaching:
- BE 835 Engineering Analysis and Optimization of Biological Systems
Research Interests:
- Machinery Systems for Food Production and Processing
- Dimensional Analysis and Similitude Modeling
- Biobased Renewable Energy Systems
Current Projects: Fruit firmness in an important physical attribute which relates to fruit quality, storability and shelf life. The presently used firmness test (Magness Taylor Test) requires a puncture penetration into fruit flesh which destroys the fruit. The objective of the research is to correlate bioyield point with apple firmness. A small rubber-tip probe has been designed which is pressed against the fruit to create a small indentation resulting in a negligible bruise. High correlation between the bioyield point and apple firmness has been found. The successful completion of this research will result in consistent higher quality product to consumers and economic benefit to growers.
A project is underway to convert turkey litter to energy via direct combustion. Studies are underway to redesign the burner, pelletizing turkey litter, study gas emissions, and heating a greenhouse.
Research Titles:
- Biobased Technology
- Technology and Principles for Assessing and Retaining Postharvest Quality of Fruit and Vegetables
