Exploring the impact of cold plasma treatment on rheological characteristics of little millet flour

The abundant production of little millet in India and having rich nutritional profile, prompting a need for scientific interventions to optimize its utility compare to other primary cereal crops. This study was conducted to examine the effect of atmospheric cold plasma on rheological properties of little millet flour (LMF) using multiple pin reactor. This investigation involved varying voltage levels (10 kV to 20 kV) and durations (10, 20, and 30 min). The study reported linear viscoelastic region, flow behavior studies and changes in storage and loss modulus of LMF suspensions with reference to frequency and temperature. The strain (γ = 0.5%) was taken with in linear viscoelastic (LVE) region. Analysis of shear stress and viscosity in relation to strain provided insights into the flow behavior of the flour suspension. Two mathematical models, namely Herschel Bulkley and Power law equations, were employed to characterize the fluid type. Both models affirmed that LMF suspensions exhibit pseudoplastic behavior. The Herschel Bulkley model demonstrated a robust fit for LMF, with an R² value exceeding 0.99. During the frequency sweep analysis, both moduli, namely storage modulus and loss modulus, exhibited higher values following plasma treatment compared to the control. Temperature sweep also revealed alterations during both heating and cooling cycles. Finally, the treated little millet flour (LMF) holds potential for diversifying into various new food applications, particularly in the production of pastes and viscous products.