The applicability of a laser triangulation probe to non-contacting inspection

This paper highlights the main advantages of non-contacting inspection and discusses the methods adaptable for the dimensional inspection of engineering components by using a compact solid-state laser triangulation sensor on a computer-assisted co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM). The machine used is the bridge-type Granite 80 model of the LK Tools Company. The methods described are equally applicable for similar inspection work by using industrial robots. The motivation for looking at non-contacting inspection methods is also discussed.     

Aspartame Degradation Kinetics as Affected by pH in Intermediate and Low Moisture Food Systems

Kinetics of aspartame degradation in low to intermediate moisture systems were evaluated by incorporating aspartame into agar/micro-crystalline cellulose model systems. They were prepared at pH 3, 5, and 7, equilibrated after freeze-drying to three water activities (0.34, 0.56, and 0.66), and stored at 25 to 45°C. Aspartame in such systems was most stable at pH 5 and became less stable as pH decreased or increased. As the molar buffer salt concentration increased, the rate of aspartame degradation increased. The activation energy ranged from 23 to 36 kcal/mole.     

Effect of Modified Atmosphere Storage on C. Botulinum Toxigenesis and the Spoilage Microflora of Salmon Fillets

Modified atmosphere (MA) storage in conjunction with refrigeration has been shown to significantly increase the shelf life of fresh fish and other products, but the effects, if any on the outgrowth and toxigenesis of C. botulinum are unknown. A commercial system was duplicated in the laboratory and the effects of modified atmosphere on the outgrowth of C. botulinum types A, B, and E were observed in inoculated salmon fillets and sandwiches stored at 4.4°C and 22.2°C. Inoculated samples stored in air at the same temperatures were used as controls. No toxigensis was observed in either the air or modified samples stored at 4.4°C, but all inoculated samples held at 22.2°C were toxic within 2–3 days. Spoilage generally preceded toxigenesis. In a concurrent study, the tendency of CO₂ environments to repress the growth of gram negative bacteria to a greater extent than gram positive bacteria was also noted.