Abstract: This invention relates to a method for the identification of an article, the method including the step of applying at least one identification particle to the article, wherein the identification particle on the article is not evident to the casual observer, but is evident on close inspection of the article, preferably with the naked eye. The identification particle is less than 500 microns in size and is reflective and has lustre. The reflective particle is not evident to the casual observer, but the sparkle thereof picked up by the naked eye on careful inspection.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for delinting cotton seed by mixing and propelling both the cotton seed and abrasive particles in high-speed contact with each other in a contained space or vessel. The abrasive particles may be calcium carbonate, glass, diatomaceous earth, sugar or sand. The abrasive particles and cotton seed may be propelled by mechanical means in the form a mixer, or through the use of high-speed air in a vessel (10).