Application of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to Measure Fiber Quality on Cotton Bales in a Gin

Research has shown acceptable accuracy of Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopic models for rapid, indirect measurements of cotton fiber quality. The objective of this research was to examine the performance of NIR at the gin for early determination of two fiber qualities, micronaire and strength, on a bale. Micronaire, the measure of air-flow permeability relating to both fiber fineness and maturity, is important to the marketing cotton because it has a direct impact on raw cotton pricing, yarn manufacturing efficiency, and resulting yarn properties. Fiber strength (g/tex) is the force applied to break a bundle of fibers. Strength of fibers correlates to their ability to endure damage during processing and to strength of yarn produced. Regression models were developed and their performance compared by examining the difference between USDA-AMS classing and NIR –based micronaire and strength values. If the accuracy of NIR-based measurements remains suitable when applied in the industrial setting of a gin, then it may provide timely and useful information for managing bale storage.