21,1 Wells and Perkins: Sulphur for Copra Drying 53 
The direct protection afforded by sulphur dioxide does not 
last more than a month, but it is well known that copra is not 
susceptible to mold if once thoroughly dried and kept in a rea- 
sonably dry place. Copra beetles, unless checked, will eventually 
attack any copra and rapidly destroy copra that has become 
moldy. They are not attracted, however, by sound copra, so 
that the prevention of mold by sulphuring also prevents spoilage 
by beetles, for a number of months, at least. 
WHEN TO USE SULPHUR 
Sulphuring should be done soon after the nuts are opened, 
if rainy weather is anticipated. If unsulphured copra is rained 
on unexpectedly, it can be sulphured even after mold has started. 
The mold, or insects, can always be killed, and immediate further 
damage prevented, but it is advantageous to sulphur as soon 
as possible to prevent damage and loss of oil. 
’ Sulphuring is valuable chiefly as an adjunct to the sundrying 
process. It is not necessary if a rapidly acting hot-air dryer 
is used, but can be employed to supplement hot-air drying 
in homemade kilns. It is also of value to the copra trader, 
who is often obliged to redry low-grade copra, and to kill the 
insects and the mold that otherwise soon complete its destruction. 
