Comparative evaluation of the physical characteristics of three sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties in Vietnam

This study investigated the seed morphology and selected physical properties of three Vietnamese sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties: white sesame (WS), yellow sesame (YS), and black sesame (BS). Visual analysis revealed distinct seed color differences among the varieties: WS with dazzling white seeds, YS with beige to light brown seeds, and BS with deep black seeds, while maintaining similar elongated seed shapes. Moisture content varied significantly, with WS having the lowest value (2.11%), followed by YS (3.13%) and BS (4.61%). Physical properties such as 1,000-seed weight, bulk, and particle density also differed significantly. WS exhibited the highest particle density (798.11 g/cm3), while YS had the lowest (659.62 g/cm3). Dimensional parameters (length, width, and thickness) and derived values like equivalent diameter, surface area, and volume showed notable variations. BS had the largest surface area and volume, along with higher sphericity (59.08%) than WS (52.24%). The friction coefficient and angle of repose were also the highest in YS and BS, suggesting varietal differences in flowability. The findings provide fundamental physical and morphological insights that are essential for seed classification, handling, and processing design.