Microwave Heating and Drying in Textile Processing-Present and Future

The state of the art of microwave heating and drying of textile materials is discussed, along with the potential for this technology to improve the productivity of the textile industry. A complete search of the literature has revealed the important research and development which has been performed related to microwave heating and drying of textiles. A review of this literature has identified the major technological barriers which inhibit widespread adoption of microwave heating and drying by the textile industry. The role that microwaves can play in accomplishing heating and drying steps currently being performed by thermal means is evaluated along with the potential technical and economic benefits.