Basically it's a air sealed tube that maintains the moisture already present in feather shuttles, so it doesn't crack as easily as before. here's some background: http://www.google.com/patents/US20060089217 Why not pick feathers that are naturally white that don't require bleaching, and work on a synthetic preening oil?
Don't think we're going to see this taking off. I really don't think water content in feathers makes a major bit of difference unless your in a really dry environment. Keeping shuttles stored correctly or a quick and simple steam can correct that. I wouldn't want to pay for the extra packaging and momisture control disc if I can manage shuttles with those simple workarounds. Thinking about it the strength of shuttles is dependant on the quality of construction and feathers. AS10's and AS50's are very different in flight characteristics and durability. I don't see durability of AS10's reaching AS50 levels just by sealing the tube with a moisture disc.
That would be a very silly idea economically. They'd be throwing away potential stock, and when bleach is so cheap, they'd be throwing away profits.
