The effects of low temperature and desiccator drying on cotton fiber properties were examined. Tests showed that drying of cotton at 93.3 C (200 F) is a rapid process. Moisture contents of cottons having initial moisture contents of 13% were reduced as much as 50% in 30 seconds of drying time. Cottons having initial moisture contents in the 5.8 to 6.5% range were reduced about 33% in 15 seconds of drying time. Changes in either fiber strength or length occurred after moisture reconditioning in the absence of mechanical processing even when the moisture levels had been reduced to below 1 percent.

Drying at 93.3 C and ambient desiccator drying caused differences in raw cotton dyeings with two direct dyes. Color measurements and subjective observations showed that drying resulted in lighter shades indicating lower dye absorption. These changes in dyeability may be the result of either physical or chemical changes in the cellulose. This was evidenced by changes in the fiber wetability using an alcohol/water sinking test.