Comprehensive analysis of heat treatment applications in Greece

Abstract: This study investigated the efficacy and distribution of heat treatments used to
control insect infestations in grain storage structures, warehouses, and food-processing facilities across Greece. Data from 428 heat treatments and 2179 wireless sensors were analyzed. The clustering algorithm identified a higher number of treatments near Thessaloniki and Athens, with moderate to lower numbers in other areas of Greece. Analysis of the average duration required to reach 50 °C revealed monthly variations, with February taking the longest (8 h and 14 min) and August the shortest (36 min). Pearson correlation analysis indicated a moderate positive correlation between the duration to reach 50°C and the months and a moderate negative correlation with monthly average temperatures, although these correlations were not statistically significant. These findings suggest that external factors such as ambient temperature may influence the efficiency of heat treatments.