Alternative method of maize grain quality maintenance for small farmers through hermetic storage

In many countries, small corn producers generally have technological limitations during storage. hermetic storage with use of PET bottles stands out as an alternative. The objective this study was to evaluate the in polyethylene silo bags and alternative for producers. Maize grains were stored bags, terephthalate (PET) glass recipients 0, 15, 30, 45, 60 days. Were used four repetitions each treatment. evaluated traits: infestation by insect pests (%); water content (% bu.); bulk density (kg 100 L-1); electrical conductivity (µS cm-1 g-1); percentage germination (%). species that infested kernels under non-hermetic conditions only Sitophilus zeamais. presented lowest among containers, followed both maximum percentages 0.65% 30%, respectively. Water content, density, e maize preserved systems tested control S. zeamais preserve quality at least days Our concludes can be particularly useful important farmers.