Cotton trash density using a density gradient column.

This project tests the hypothesis that the ginning process of cotton produces trash as a function of the density. A density gradient column was utilized to measure the densities of the different types of cotton trash. With this gradient, the object will sink due to gravity but eventually be suspended in the solution due to Archimedes principle as it becomes less dense than the denser solution towards the bottom. Utilizing calibrated glass balls, the density is then calculated based on the gradient curve. Cotton trash was collected from the different stages of the ginning process. The samples were then sorted into the different types of trash such as stems and seed coats. Samples were then boiled and vacuumed to remove residual air in the substances. Prepared and distinguishable samples were placed in the column with each trial. After a five-hour period, the samples heights in the columns were recorded and the densities calculated. A definite positive trend in the trash to increase in density as the ginning process continued was observed. Seed meat mean values ranged from 1.1478g/mL in stage 4 to 1.3544g/mL in stage 14.. In Pima trash, stem and pima were similar with mean values of 1.2423g/mL and 1.2227g/ mL. However, this changed significantly in Upland trash as the values were 1.1398g/ mL for stem and 1.2574g/mL for seed meat. Mean Upland Trash values ranged from 0.8362g/mL (boll lining) to 1.4735g/mL (bract). Mean Pima Trash values ranged from 1.0402g/mL (shale) to 1.4783g/mL (bract).