Advancements in Applications of Natural Wool Fiber: Review

Abstract

Natural fibers are getting attention from researchers and academician for utilization in new technology due to their ecofriendly nature and sustainability. This paper reviews advancements of utilization of natural wool fiber in industry and agriculture. Sheep wool is one of the natural and renewable sources which is widely used in the textile industry to make clothes, rugs, socks, and carpets, besides some uses in agriculture as fertilizers. Recently, wool has become alternative material in some industrial sectors, which increases the value of wool fiber. Increasing demand for alternative materials in buildings sectors has driven the production of sheep wool fibers with comparable and unique properties, for example thermal and sound insulation. Wool with enlarged pores is commercially available for sorption of dyes, oil spill, and volatile organic compounds (Greener Cleaner). Wool is also chemically modified for use in catalytic converter. The unique composition of wool has made it favorable in construction of light aircraft, ships, and trains upholstery. The self-extinguish property makes wool promising as a seal insulator for heat-generating appliances. Substances such as lanoline, ceramide, peptone, and keratin have been proposed for manipulation with wool to be utilized in pharmacotherapy cosmetics, and medical treatment.