Wool against fire

Wool is less sensitive to burning than synthetic fibers. This makes it the ideal fabric for uniforms for US troops, firefighters and firefighters.

A new technique of making bio-fine wool can make wool clothes more comfortable.The US military also loves this fabric.(Photo: Peggy Greb)

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) chemist Jeanette M. Cardamone has discovered and invented a heat-resistant material that can be combined with wool and other fabrics to form flame-proof properties. of various types of commercial firefighter uniforms.

The material was invented at the request of the US military (which is one of the largest consumer markets for domestic wools) to provide the US military with protection against fire-related injuries. . Burned wool produces soft ashes, and this ash will not stick to open wounds , unlike other synthetic materials that can shrink into beads and drip into the wound.

In a previous research project, Cardamone studied with colleagues at the ARS Eastern Regional Research Center in Wyndmoor, Pa. to make 'bio-smoothed' wool that does not cause itching and is washable by machine.

There are 9 companies that expressed interest in obtaining this bio-smoothed wool technology production license, and the ARS Technology Transfer Office issued a license for it. Bio-smoothed wool already has many valuable features available, so it is a natural choice for making innovative fabrics with fire-prevention features.

Working with guest scientist Anand Kanchagar, Cardamone improved the fire prevention of bio-smoothed wool by treating it with a heat-resistant polymer resin with stable, easy to operate and capable Extremely high temperature resistance. Previous tests have shown that the burning styles of wool have been treated by ARS to match Nomex's 50/50 blended wool (the fire retardant brand is currently used in fire protection gear). ).

Scientists are experimenting with a variety of methods to enhance wool's fire and flame retardant properties. Cardamone and his colleagues are looking for industrial partners to conduct research on the treatment of fabrics that are durable in laundry.