Magnetic resonance relaxometry for potato processing water analysis
Utilize magnetic resonance relaxometry to measure free water content in potatoes during processing. This offline, low-field MR technique aims to enhance efficiency by providing accurate water content analysis, with future plans for online application.
Overview
This advanced solution leverages magnetic resonance (MR) relaxometry to accurately measure the free and mobile water content in potatoes during processing. By directly assessing the water carryover, this technique promises to improve efficiency and quality control in potato processing facilities. The initial focus is on offline measurements at low magnetic fields, with the potential to develop mobile MR applications for online use.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Low-field MR relaxometry: Uses a 2 MHz magnetic field to study water populations with different molecular mobilities.
- Offline measurements: Initial proof of concept focuses on offline testing, providing a controlled environment for measurement accuracy.
- Potential for online implementation: Plans are in place to adapt this technology for real-time monitoring, enhancing its applicability in industrial settings.
The MR relaxometry technique exploits the spin-spin T2 relaxation time distributions to distinguish between free and adsorbed water states in potato samples, providing detailed insights into water dynamics during processing.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, this solution has undergone laboratory proof-of-concept validation. Further development and testing are planned to advance its readiness for commercial deployment in food processing industries.
About Montana State University Alumni Foundation
The Montana State University Alumni Foundation is a nonprofit, university‑affiliated philanthropic organization in Bozeman that advances Montana State University, a public land‑grant research university. As a front door for companies and private philanthropies, it aligns corporate priorities with campus expertise and stewards gifts that strengthen research infrastructure and talent pipelines. Working with campus leadership, the foundation connects partners to the MSU Innovation Campus and co‑located applied research spaces, and to the statewide Extension network for field deployment. MSU research is broadly supported by competitive federal funding from major U.S. agencies, enabling sustained collaboration with industry. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation, providing clear pathways from discovery to market.
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