Analysis of Cotton Fiber Maturity, Fineness, Strength, Length, and Color by Vis/NIR Reflectance Spectroscopy Part 1. Methodology and Mechanisms

Joseph G. Montalvo, Jr., Sherman E. Faught, Dong-Hwa Shin, and Steven M. Buco


 
ABSTRACT

Vis/NIR reflectance spectroscopy is a nondestructive method of analysis that measures multiple fiber quality parameters from the reflectance spectrum of cotton. Current methodology studies include a systematic plan to (a) evaluate and modify instrumentation (a scanning and a diode-array spectrophotometer) and (b) understand the principles of multivariate algorithms applied to cotton. An HVI at-line sample attachment to the conventional scanning spectrophotometer is being assembled. In another study, a high speed diode-array instrument produced spectra that matched closely those spectra from the scanning instrument. Theoretical studies of multivariate algorithms specific for cotton quality determinations have resulted in several candidate algorithms now under evaluation. The underlying mechanisms by which a fiber property is sensed is based on the fact that in the Vis/NIR wavelength range, cotton and its impurities absorb and scatter incident photons. Consequently, its spectrum must contain information related to the physical structure and composition of cotton. Assuming that fiber quality parameters can be defined in terms of the information in the spectrum, then the parameter values can be extracted from the spectrum by multivariate calibration. The mechanism studies provide for a better understanding of how the various quality parameters are sensed -- definitely not by "magic". The overall goal is to produce precise cotton quality measurements for the industry by a simple and practical approach.



Reprinted from 1992 Proceedings Beltwide Cotton Conferences pg. 1022
©National Cotton Council, Memphis TN

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Document last modified Sunday, Dec 6 1998