Mathematical modeing of stored-grain ecosystems

我们研究计划的长期目标是通过开发创新的储粮管理工具和储粮生态系统的数学模型，减少谷物、油籽和豆类(统称为谷物)在储存过程中的质和量损失。储粮生态系统是指物理、化学和生物变量相互作用导致粮食变质的人工生态系统。因此，加强对这些相互作用的低估，对于制定创新的管理战略以保持谷物质量至关重要。一个全面的生态系统模型必须包括模拟热量传递；昆虫运动；昆虫种群动态；气体扩散、对流和吸附；水分转移；以及谷物和害虫产生二氧化碳、水分和热量。

The long-term objective of our research program is to reduce the qualitative and quantitative losses in cereals, oilseeds and pulses (collectively referred to as grains) during storage by developing innovative stored-grain management tools and mathematical models of stored-grain ecosystems. A stored-grain ecosystem is a man-made ecosystem where interactions among physical, chemical and biological variables cause deterioration of grain. Thus, an enhanced understating of these interactions is critical to developing innovative management strategies to preserve grain quality. A comprehensive ecosystem model must include simulation of heat transfer; insect movement; insect population dynamics; gaseous diffusion, convection, and sorption; moisture transfer; and the production of carbon dioxide, moisture, and heat by grain and pests.