a system for drying chemical reagents on material , particularly for producing product used in making reagent test strips is described . by drying selected chemicals on substrate drawn past a radiant energy source , rapid drying may be achieved while obtaining high - quality product . airflow sufficient to break or disturb a vapor boundary layer above drying solution may be provided to increase drying speeds . any airflow provided should not disturb the surface of the solution . still , air - impingement drying techniques may be employed in the system to finish drying reagent material once it is sufficiently dry to be stable in shape . the substrate upon which chemicals are dried may include a reflective coating to facilitate its use with high levels of radiant energy . a metallic or metalized substrate is advantageously used in producing electrochemical test strips . such test strips may be used in conjunction with various kits and be conveniently read using known hand - held meters .