Ashim K. Datta, Research

• Current Projects
• Equine Airway Model
• Drug Delivery
• Combination Microwave Heating
• Moisture Transport in Baking & Frying
• Uncertainty in Thermal Processing
• Computer-Aided Engineering

Computer-Aided Engineering

Prediction of hazards is at the heart of food safety. Computer modeling techniques can provide a significant boost to food safety by making available predictive tools that could provide safety information for specific products, processing conditions and microorganisms through "what-if" scenarios for unintended contamination and sabotage. However, modeling tools for food processes that are realistic, integrated, comprehensive and targeted to safety and quality are currently unavailable. Compared to other technology sectors, food processing has benefited little from computer simulation.

We propose to develop the resources and the missing linkages between generic computer simulation tools and their use to improve food safety. Comprehensive, non-empirical models of a number of food processes will be developed. These models will be integrated with a physical properties database, predictive microbiology knowledge base, and chemical safety database into a user-friendly tool for the entire food processing community. This is a joint project with Professor P.Michael Davidson of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.