Abstract: A process for removal of moisture from fissile and non-fissile bodies which are encapsulated in hollow rods comprising perforating the rod, subjecting the rod to a reduced pressure environment, filling the rod with a dehydrating reagent and adjusting the temperature and pressure to bring about vaporization of the dehydrating reagent-water mixture. After cooling in a dry inert gas atmosphere, the rod is removed from the environment and the perforation is sealed.