Mechanisms and Driving Forces of Safe and Technological Processing of Grain Products Using Various Energy Sources

The article discusses modern technological approaches to ensuring grain quality preservation and increasing yield in grain processing, particularly in wartime conditions. Particular attention is paid to energy-intensive post-harvest grain processing and the use of the latest methods of influencing raw materials, such as thermal irradiation, microwave and acoustic treatment. The article examines modern mechanisms and driving forces that determine the efficiency, safety and technological feasibility of grain processing using various energy sources. The theoretical principles underlying the transformation, distribution, mixing and dehydration of grain products are presented. The importance of complying with the basic principles of thermodynamics for the qualitative assessment and optimisation of technological processes is demonstrated. Particular attention is paid to post-harvest processing, which is a key link in preserving quality and increasing yield in conditions of high energy intensity of production processes. An analysis of the latest technological approaches to thermal and moisture-thermal processing of grain, such as microwave, infrared, and ultrasonic heating, as well as methods of drying, irradiation, grinding, and mixing, is presented. It is noted that the main processes of grain conversion, mixing and distribution are based on the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, in particular the equations of material and energy balance, kinetics and equilibrium. The influence of the dielectric and magnetic properties of grain products on the efficiency of electromagnetic heating is also described. Approaches to energy calculations for microwave processing are proposed, which take into account the peculiarities of the physical and chemical properties of grain. The advantages and limitations of high-frequency processing methods compared to traditional ones are noted, taking into account technical, environmental and economic aspects. A conclusion is made about the need to adapt equipment to the conditions of grain procurement enterprises and the advisability of further research to ensure the efficiency and safety of technological processes. The advantages of microwave treatment as an inertia-free, controllable and energy-efficient technology capable of destroying pests, increasing seed germination and preserving the biological value of the product are highlighted. At the same time, the difficulties regarding energy consumption, high equipment costs and the need to comply with environmental standards are emphasised. The work is based on the results of research by scientists at Odessa National Technological University and has practical significance for the agro-industrial complex.