The germination and emergence response of polymer-coated fuzzy cottonseed

Delinting of cottonseed can be accomplished by several methods. Mechanical delinting, wet acid delinting using sulfuric acid in a dilute form, and gas delinting with hydrogen chloride are the most common methods.

Delinting of cottonseed using wet acid and hydrogen chloride improves handling. Fuzzy seed has long fibers (linters) that tend to clump together and resist flowing smoothly. Acid delinting is necessary to handle cottonseed using modern equipment to treat and plant, as it removes leftover fibers and produces a smooth seed surface. Seed treaters and planters are designed to handle uniform seeds that act as single units that are easily manipulated by taking advantage of gravity.

Although delinting has several positive effects, there are also negative aspects associated with delinting. Gas delinting is a viable option only in areas of low humidity. Sulfuric acid and hydrogen chloride pose potential hazardous handling problems to workers and any residues are becoming increasingly expensive to dispose. Seed that is acid delinted must be properly neutralized or the pH levels on the seed coat can decrease drastically causing damage to the seed. Ammonia used during the neutralization process may also cause damage to the seed.