Wool or wool fibres are obtained from the fleece of sheep Ovis aries, of the family Bovidae.
Large quantities of wool is manufactured in Russia, Australia, USA, Argentina and in India.
Preparation:
The hairs, which form the fleece of the sheep are removed at shearing time. They are then processed to remove wool fat and dirt. The cleaned and defatted wool is bleached, washed again and dried.
Wool hairs are elastic, smooth, lustrous, curly, hygroscopic and slippery to touch. These hairs have a tendency to cling together.
It is insoluble in sulphuric acid, concentrated hydrochloric acid and cuoxam solution.
Chemical constituents:
It contains a sulphur containing protein, keratin which is rich in sulphur containing aminoacid cysteine.
Chemical test:
When lead acetate is added to a solution of wool in caustic soda, a black precipitate is obtained due to high sulphur content.
Uses:
Wool is used as a filtering and straining medium. It is also used for manufacturing of dressings like domette and crepe bandages and flannel.
