Relationship Between Various Surface Properties of Wool Fibers: Part I: Methods for Estimating Wool Fiber Modification

Wool fibers were steeped in alcoholic potash for different periods of time. The mechanical properties and swelling properties of these fibers were investigated, and the results obtained indicate that the potash treatments do not influence these properties. The Allwörden reaction was studied, and the results obtained show that the reaction time for the characteristic bubbles to appear is determined by the reaction rate between the chlorine and the keratin of the wool fiber. The epicuticle of the fibers, however, must be intact. It is further shown that the results of most staining reactions are dependent upon the properties of the epicuticle.