Evaluation of changes in the mechanical and rheological properties of potatoes during long-term storage

In this study, changes in the mechanical and rheological properties of potato (Agria) were assessed by examining the elastic and viscoelastic characteristics. Mechanical and rheological parameters were examinated by uniaxial compression and creep tests during six months storage. According to the results, curve fitting procedure of third-degree polynomial on the load-displacement in the compress test (R2 = 0.98) and Burger's model on the response of creep test (R2 = 0.99) was well done. During storage, the modulus of elasticity (10.47 %), maximum failure force, toughness and retardation time decreased. Also, Initial and retarded compliance has followed an increasing trend during storage (13.33 % and 10 %, respectively). The rest of the parameters obtained did not show a certain continuous process.