Developments in Short Fiber Measurements

The Commercial Standardization of Instrument Testing (CSITC) Task Force recently met in Cape Town, South Africa. The CSITC Task Force is promoting international standardization of instrument testing through recognition of USDA's Universal Standards as the only international standard. In addition, the task force is promoting standardization through an international round test aimed at cotton instrument labs around the world. Recent trials have been conducted in the areas of short fiber index and maturity measurements. Results indicate unacceptable performance of these measurements for commercial measurment purposes. However, recent instrument developments and new cotton calibration procedures in the area of short fiber measurements are to be evaluated as an adjunct part in upcoming CSITC round tests. USDA has agreed to provide calibration materials for short fiber on an experimental basis in order to evaluate recent instrument developments.