Wool, is a natural fiber possessing several properties, that make it useful in textiles, apparels and home furnishings. Some of the important properties are:
- Strength: Wool is the weakest of the natural fibers. Various wool fabrics are made more durable, by using selected grades of recycled wool. The fiber is strengthened by the use of ply yarns.
- Elasticity: The fiber is very elastic and can be stretched to 25 to 30 percent of the natural length. Wool and wool blend fabrics are given mechanical crimps and also chemical treatments to increase the elasticity. Chemical treatments lead to improved shape retention.
- Resilience: Wool fiber has high resilience, therefore it does not wrinkle much. The wrinkles, if any, smooth when the fabric is steamed.
- Absorbency: Wool tends to be a water repellent, but if the moisture seeps in, it can absorb about 20 percent of its weight.
- Heat Conductivity: The natural fiber is a non conductor of heat, therefore wool is excellent for manufacturing winter wear garments, carpets and rugs.
