Here is a clearer, more detailed explanation of the Manufacturing Process of Wool, including
definitions and refined information from the image:
Manufacturing Process of Wool
Wool is a natural, multicellular, staple fibre obtained mainly from sheep. It is valued for its
warmth, elasticity, and moisture-absorbing properties. The manufacturing of wool involves
several key steps to convert raw fleece into usable textile material.
1. Shearing
Definition: Shearing is the process of removing the fleece (wool coat) from sheep.
Wool is removed from a living animal (usually domesticated sheep).
This is typically done in early spring before the hot weather begins.
The fleece is removed in one whole piece by expert shearers to maintain its quality.
Note: In some cases, wool may be collected from hides of slaughtered animals, although
this is less common.
2. Sorting
Definition: Sorting involves categorizing wool based on its quality and characteristics.
Wool is sorted by skilled workers based on:
o Fineness
o Length
o Strength
Sorting ensures uniform quality for specific textile uses.
3. Scouring
Definition: Scouring is the washing process to clean raw wool.
Wool is washed in warm soapy water several times.
It removes:
o Natural grease or lanolin
o Dirt
o Dust
o Gum
Cleaned wool is essential for further processing.
4. Oiling
Definition: Oiling is the application of oils to wool to make it more manageable during further
processing.
Wool is treated with various oils:
o Animal
o Vegetable
o Mineral oils
This helps in reducing static and friction, making fibres easier to handle.
5. Garnetting
Definition: Garnetting is the process of recycling old or waste wool fibres.
It involves picking and shredding wool.
Garnetting helps recycle unused wool, making the process more sustainable.
6. Carbonizing
Definition: Carbonizing is a chemical treatment used to remove vegetable matter from wool.
Wool is soaked in a dilute solution of hydrochloric acid (HCl) or sulfuric acid
(H₂SO₄).
This destroys any plant material (vegetable fibres) mixed with wool.
The treated wool is then neutralized and dried.
7. Felting
Definition: Felting is the process where wool fibres interlock when exposed to moisture, heat,
and pressure.
Wet wool fabrics are subjected to mechanical treatment, such as:
o Rubbing
o Pressing
o Squeezing
Due to their serrated surface structure, wool fibres easily interlock.
Wool is cleaned in one direction (rootward) to minimize damage and avoid friction.
Final Note:
Each of these steps is essential to prepare wool for spinning into yarn or fabric production. The
process enhances wool’s softness, durability, and usability in the textile industry.
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This image contains important information about the chemical composition and quality of
wool, typically studied in textile and fiber science. Below is a comprehensive explanation
covering all the key points from the image:
🧪 Chemical Composition of Wool
Wool is a natural protein fiber obtained from sheep. Its raw form contains various components:
Main Components (by Percentage):
Percentage
Component
(%)
1. Keratin 45–75%
2. Grease 5–15%
3. Moisture 10–12%
4. Suint 2–12%
5. Sand & Dirt 4–30%
6. Vegetable
0–5%
Matter
🔬 Details of Major Components:
1. Keratin
Keratin is the main structural protein of wool.
It contains the following elements:
o Carbon: 50–53%
o Hydrogen: 6–7%
o Nitrogen: 16–18%
o Oxygen: 21–25%
o Sulfur: 7–5.0%
Keratin is responsible for wool’s strength and elasticity.
The cystine link in keratin molecules provides:
o Strength
o Resistance to alkalis, heat, moths, and non-felting agents.
2. Grease
Impurity found in raw wool.
Insoluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents.
Wool grease is a wax, not a fat.
It is composed of high molecular weight fatty acid esters and monohydric alcohols.
It helps wool absorb water.
3. Suint
Water-soluble substance, extractable via aqueous solution.
Contains potassium salts and organic amino acids.
Comes from sweat secretions of sheep.
4. Sand and Dirt
Present in raw wool due to environmental exposure.
Held in place by grease, removed during scouring.
Affects processing stages like bleaching.
⚠️Effects of Chemicals During Processing:
Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) can damage wool fibers.
Perchloric acid (HClO₄) and sodium hypochlorite should never be used on wool.
🐑 Different Qualities of Wool
The quality of wool depends on:
Breed of the sheep
Environmental conditions where sheep were reared
Classifications:
1. Fine Wool (e.g., Merino) – Soft, high-quality
2. Medium Wool – Moderate fineness and durability
3. Long Wool – Coarse, strong fibers
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simpler terms.
Based on the images you've shared, here's a clear and comprehensive explanation of the types of
wool described:
🐑 1. Fine Wool (Merino Wool)
Source: Merino sheep (mainly from Spain, Australia, USA, South America, South
Africa).
Characteristics:
o Fineness & Softness: Very soft; excellent for delicate garments.
o Crimp: Up to 30 waves/inch, adds elasticity and strength to yarn.
o Fiber Length: Shorter staple length, about 2–4 inches.
o Diameter: Very fine (~17 µ).
o Counts: Suitable for 60s to 80s, fine yarns.
o Color: Usually white or near white.
o Other Traits: Excellent felting properties due to higher scale density.
Uses:
o Premium garments, fine suits, soft knitwear, base layers, baby clothing.
🧦 2. Medium Wool
Position: Between fine and long wool in terms of coarseness and length.
Length: 2–5 inches.
Diameter: 20–40 µ.
Texture: Lighter than Merino, less greasy and less sandy.
Counts: Spun into 46s to 60s.
Origin: UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Argentina, Chile.
Uses:
o Hosiery, knit goods, ladies' suits, coats, tweeds, serges, flannels, blankets.
✨ 3. Long Wool
Wool Length: Longest among all types, 5–14 inches.
Coarseness: Coarsest wool type.
Diameter: 25–50 µ.
Counts: Spun into 36s–50s.
Preferred Conditions: Grows best in excessive rainfall areas.
Breeds: Lincoln, Cotswold, Leicester.
Types:
o Lustre Wool: ~12 inches long, used in dress fabrics, buntings, linings.
o Semi-lustre Wool: Shorter, less shiny, used in curtains, serges, dress fabrics.
Uses: Heavy fabrics, shiny linings, curtains.
🧬 4. Cross-Breed Wools
Produced By: Crossing Merino with English breeds.
Purpose: Dual-use – for wool and meat.
Adaptation: Resistant to harsh local conditions.
Length: 3–6 inches.
Diameter: 25–50 µ.
Counts: 50s to 60s.
Key Countries & Breeds:
o USA: Corriedale, Columbia, Panama, Romedale, Montadale, Targhee.
o Australia: Corriedale, Polwarth.
o New Zealand: Corriedale.
Uses: Medium garments, coats, general-purpose wool.
🏡 5. Carpet Wool (Long & Coarse Type Wool)
Produced by: Sheep raised in primitive, harsh conditions.
Main Source: Asiatic countries, including India.
Fiber Length: 4–10 inches.
Protection: Dense fleece protects sheep from cold and moisture.
Type: Very coarse, less suitable for garments.
Trade Name: Indian wool is called East India Carpet in the market.
Uses:
o Carpets and rugs, coarse overcoats, tweeds, blankets, by mixing with other
wools.
📊 Comparison Table:
Diameter Yarn Count
Wool Type Length Key Use Cases
(µ) (s)
2–4 Premium garments, soft
Fine Wool ~17 µ 60s–80s
inch knitwear
2–5 Hosiery, suits, flannels,
Medium Wool 20–40 µ 46s–60s
inch blankets
5–14 Lustrous fabrics, curtains,
Long Wool 25–50 µ 36s–50s
inch linings
Cross Breed 3–6 General garments, resistant
25–50 µ 50s–60s
Wool inch wool
4–10 Not Carpets, coarse outerwear,
Carpet Wool Coarse
inch specified tweeds
If you'd like, I can also help you make a presentation slide or handwritten note summary of
these wool types. Let me know your format!
Of course, Nahid! Here's a clear and well-organized explanation of the chemical properties of
wool, based on your image. This version is simplified and exam-friendly, perfect for revision:
🧪 Chemical Properties of Wool (Explained Simply):
1. Effect of Acids
Wool is highly sensitive to strong acids like hot concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄).
It completely decomposes in such acids.
Even mild mineral acids can damage wool over time.
Nitric acid can cause oxidation and yellowing of wool.
2. Effect of Alkalis
Wool is very sensitive to alkaline substances.
It dissolves in strong alkali like caustic soda (NaOH).
Mild alkalis (e.g., sodium carbonate, borax) have less effect on wool compared to
cotton.
3. Effect of Oxidizing Agents
These chemicals (like hydrogen peroxide) can break down the wool protein structure.
Used in bleaching, but excess use can weaken or damage the fiber.
4. Effect of Reducing Agents
Reducing agents also attack wool, especially in alkaline solutions.
They break disulfide bonds in wool keratin, weakening the fiber.
5. Effect of Organic Solvents
Wool has good resistance to solvents used in dry-cleaning (like perchloroethylene).
Does not easily dissolve or damage in most solvents.
6. Effect of Insects
Wool is vulnerable to moth larvae and beetle grubs.
These insects eat the keratin protein, causing holes or damage.
7. Effect of Microorganisms
Wool has poor resistance to mildew and bacteria.
If kept wet or damp for too long, wool can rot or decay.
8. Dyeability
Wool is easy to dye due to its protein structure and porosity.
Works well with acid dyes, mordant dyes, reactive dyes, and premetalized dyes.
9. Effect of Heat
Wool becomes soft and weak in boiling water over time.
At 130°C, it starts to turn yellow.
At 300°C, it chars and emits a smell like burning feathers.
Does not keep burning after the flame is removed.
10. Effect of Sunlight
Sunlight causes keratin to break down before the wool is even removed from the sheep!
Sulfur in wool turns into sulfuric acid, which damages the fiber.
Results: wool becomes discolored, harsh, weak, and harder to dye.
✍️Summary Table (Exam Friendly)
Agent /
Effect on Wool
Condition
Strong acids Completely decomposes wool
Strong alkalis Dissolves keratin protein
Oxidizing
Damages structure; used for bleaching
agents
Reducing Attacks wool bonds (especially in alkaline
agents pH)
Organic
Wool is resistant
solvents
Insects Attacked by moths and grubs
Microorganis
Grows mildew in damp condition
ms
Heat Weakens, yellows at 130°C, chars at 300°C
Causes degradation, discoloration, loss of
Sunlight
strength
Excellent with acid, mordant, and reactive
Dyeability
dyes
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Woolen and worsted yarns are both made from wool fibers, but they undergo different
processing methods, resulting in distinct characteristics and uses.1
Uses of Woolen Yarn:
Woolen yarn is produced from fibers that are carded but not combed. This means the
fibers are left in a somewhat disorganized, crisscrossing arrangement. This process
creates a yarn that is:
Bulkier and Loftier: The disorganized fibers trap more air, making woolen yarns
excellent insulators.
Softer and Fuzzier: The shorter fibers and less parallel alignment contribute to a
softer, more "hairy" feel.
Less Even and Strong: The lack of combing means shorter fibers are present,
leading to a less uniform and potentially weaker yarn compared to worsted.
Due to these characteristics, woolen yarns are primarily used for items where warmth,
softness, and a fuzzy texture are desired:2
Warm Outerwear: Sweaters, cardigans, hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves.
Blankets and Throws: Their excellent insulation makes them ideal for cozy
bedding and decorative throws.3
Heavy Apparel: Tweed jackets, coats, and other garments where a substantial,
warm fabric is needed.4
Home Textiles: Upholstery, rugs, and carpets, especially where warmth and
sound absorption are beneficial.5
Felted Items: The natural crimp and scales of wool fibers allow them to felt
easily, making woolen yarn suitable for felt crafts like hats, bags, and decorative
pieces.6
Insulation: Used in some industrial applications for thermal and acoustic
insulation.
Uses of Worsted Yarn:
Worsted yarn goes through a more extensive process that includes combing in addition
to carding.7 Combing removes shorter fibers and aligns the remaining longer fibers
parallel to each other.8 This results in a yarn that is:
Smoother and Denser: The parallel fibers create a smooth, lustrous surface.
Stronger and More Durable: The longer, aligned fibers contribute to greater
tensile strength and resistance to pilling.
More Even and Less Bulky: The removal of shorter fibers and parallel
alignment lead to a more uniform and less bulky yarn.9
Clearer Stitch Definition: The smooth surface allows knit or woven stitches to
stand out clearly.
Because of its strength, smoothness, and fine appearance, worsted yarn is typically
used for:
Tailored Garments: High-quality suits, trousers, and dresses where a crisp
drape and clean finish are desired.
Fine Knitwear: Sweaters, cardigans, and accessories where stitch definition and
a refined look are important. "Worsted weight yarn" is a common medium-weight
category for knitting and crochet projects.10
Hosiery and Gloves: Its smoothness and durability make it suitable for these
items.
Upholstery and Furnishing Fabrics: Its durability and ability to hold shape are
valuable for furniture and interior décor.
Carpets: Especially for durable, less bulky carpets.
Tapestry Weaving: The clear definition and strength are advantageous for
intricate designs.
Specialized Applications: In some cases, blended with other fibers for specific
industrial uses, or in protective clothing due to wool's natural fire resistance.
In summary, woolen yarns emphasize warmth, softness, and a rustic feel, while worsted
yarns prioritize smoothness, strength, and a more refined appearance.