Early tests show that the burning behavior of the polymer-treated ARS wool compares to a 50/50 blend of wool and Nomex—the fabric currently used in protective firefighting gear.
The scientists are experimenting with different methods to enhance the wool's heat-resistant and flame-retardant properties.
Cardamone says that the flame-retardant treatment should be durable to laundering.
Increasing the value and versatility of domestic wool would benefit the U.S. sheep industry, which produces about 40 million pounds of raw wool a year. In addition, U.S. consumers—including the U.S. military and many law-enforcement agencies, which are required to use domestic wool in their uniforms and equipment—would enjoy the benefits of home-grown, soft, shrink-proof, fire-retardant wool.—By Laura McGinnis, Agricultural Research Service Information Staff.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
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