Imaging and modelling of time/temperature integrators in foods undergoing microwave assisted thermal processing

Thermal processing is the backbone of the global food industry. It involves heating products to a precise temperature for a known time to guarantee they are safe for consumption. An exciting new technique that has the potential to disrupt traditional thermal processing systems is microwave assisted thermal sterilisation and pasteurisation technology (MATS). This combines microwaves heating with conventional conduction in order to reduce the processing time of products, enabling higher quality products to be produced. However, this approach brings with it some unique challenges as unlike traditional processes where the coldest region of the product is its centre, the uneven heating patterns generated using microwaves means the cold spots within the products are less predictable.

This PhD research programme seeks to develop validation methods using image processing to establish the thermal distribution of products manufactured using microwave processing. This will involve assessing current methods to assess the temperature distribution in products during heating for their effectiveness and efficiency. It will also involve investigating novel methods to aid in the validation process. Additionally the project may involve the development of predictive models to aid in the understanding of the thermal distribution in products during processing.

Prof Don Bailey and Dr Steven Le Moan of Massey University will lead the supervision of this PhD programme. The primary location will be the Palmerston North campus of Massey University. The position sits within a team tasked with validating this new technology and providing support to the food industry looking to use the technique to manufacture products.

Interested students with appropriate qualifications (1st class or 2nd class Div 1 honours degree, or a master’s degree in engineering, food engineering or equivalent) should contact the Project Lead Dr Jeremy Smith [[Email Address Removed]] by the 9th of November and supply a detailed CV with an academic transcript.