Abstract
In this study, the feasibility of magnetic resonance techniques for nondestructive internal quality evaluation of Korean red ginseng was examined. Relaxation time constants were measured using various grades of red ginsengs. Solid state magnetic resonance imaging technique was applied to image dried red ginsengs which have low moisture contents (about 13%). A 7 tesla magnetic resonance imaging system operating at a proton resonant frequency of 300 ㎒ was used for acquiring MR images of dried Korean red ginseng. The comparison test of cross cut digital images and magnetic resonance images of heaven grade, good grade with cavity inside, and good grade with white part inside red ginseng suggested the feasibility of the internal quality evaluation of Korean red ginsengs using MRI techniques. A good grade red ginseng included abnormal tissues such as cavities or white parts inside was observed by the signal intensity of MR image based on magnetic resonance properties of proton nucleus. Analysis on an one dimensional profile of acquired MR image of Korean red ginseng showed easy discrimination of normal and abnormal tissues. MR techniques suggested ways to detect internal defects of red ginsengs effectively.
