Different Quality of Wool Fibre From The Worlds Various Region:
The raising of sheep for wool fibre is now an important industry in many countries and the quality of different wools is correspondingly diverse. The merino sheep, which produces fine, soft wool, forms the basis of wool production in Australia, South Africa and South America. Immense flocks of merinos are raised in these countries.
Australia:
The quality of the merino wool fibre from these sources depends upon environmental conditions and upon the hereditary characteristics of the sheep. Port Philip wool is reputed to be the finest Australian fiber and is used for making high quality woolen and worsted fiber. Sydney and Adelaide wools are not quite as fine as port Philip and they are a shade yellower in color. Tasmanian wool fibre is of first rate quality and washes a beautiful white.
South Africa:
Wool fibre from South Africa is very crimped or wavy and has a good white color after washing. It is used for good quality worsteds and woolens.
South America:
South American wool fibre is not generally of such good quality as wool from Australia or South Africa. Much of the South American wool is used by continental manufacturers. The best quality South American wool comes from Montevideo, with Buenos Aires next. Punta Arenas wool which comes from cross-bred sheep is bulky wool and is widely used in making hosiery.
Europe:
In Germany, French, Spain and other European counties and in the U.S, the merino has been reared successfully and often provides wool of high quality. Saxony and Silesian merino wools, for example, have the reputation of being the finest in the world. The French Rambouillet is renowned for its high quality wool.
Asian Wool:
In China and other parts of Asia, in Turkey and Siberia, the production of wool is of growing importance. The wool is often long and coarse compared with fiber produced in Australia, South Africa and the other great wool producing countries.
As in the case of cotton and other plant fibers, the quality of wool depends greatly upon the conditions under which it is grown. Wool derives from a living creature, and it is affected not only by the hereditary characteristics of the sheep but by the environment in which the sheep has lived.
Properties of Wool Fiber:
1. Insulating Properties:
- Thermal Insulation: Wool has excellent thermal insulation properties. Its crimped structure traps air, making it a good insulator that keeps the wearer warm in cold climates and cool in hot climates.
- Temperature Regulation: Wool can absorb moisture without feeling damp, allowing it to regulate body temperature effectively.
2. Moisture Absorption:
- Hygroscopic: Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet. This property helps in maintaining comfort by wicking sweat away from the skin.
3. Elasticity and Resilience:
- Natural Elasticity: Wool fibers can stretch and then return to their original shape, making wool garments resistant to wrinkling and able to retain their shape over time.
- Durability: The elasticity and resilience of wool make it durable, allowing it to withstand repeated bending and stretching without breaking.
4. Flame Resistance:
- Naturally Flame-Retardant: Wool is naturally flame-resistant and does not melt or drip when exposed to fire. This makes it a safer choice for applications where fire resistance is important.
5. Breathability:
- Air Permeability: Wool is highly breathable, allowing air to circulate through the fabric, which helps to prevent overheating and ensures comfort.
6. Biodegradability:
- Eco-Friendly: Wool is a renewable resource and is biodegradable, breaking down naturally in the environment without causing harm.
7. Anti-Microbial Properties:
- Odor Resistance: Wool has natural antimicrobial properties, which help to resist the growth of bacteria and reduce odors.
8. Crimp and Texture:
- Crimped Structure: The crimp in wool fibers gives it a bulky, elastic texture that is soft and comfortable to wear. This also contributes to its insulation properties.
Uses of Wool Fiber:
1. Apparel:
- Clothing: Wool is commonly used in the production of garments such as sweaters, suits, coats, scarves, and socks due to its warmth, elasticity, and comfort.
- Activewear: Merino wool, a finer type of wool, is popular in activewear because of its moisture-wicking, breathability, and odor resistance properties.
2. Home Textiles:
- Carpets and Rugs: Wool is used in high-quality carpets and rugs because of its durability, stain resistance, and fire-retardant properties.
- Bedding: Wool is used in blankets, duvets, and mattress toppers due to its insulation and moisture-regulating properties.
3. Industrial Applications:
- Insulation Material: Wool’s natural insulating properties make it useful in building insulation and soundproofing materials.
- Felt: Wool is used to make felt, a non-woven fabric used in a variety of applications, including crafts, upholstery, and industrial products.
4. Medical and Specialty Uses:
- Compression Garments: Wool’s elasticity and moisture-wicking properties make it suitable for compression garments and bandages.
- Fire-Resistant Fabrics: Wool is used in protective clothing for firefighters and other workers who need flame-resistant apparel.