Textile Term: Chlorinated Wool
Chlorinated wool is an exclusive variety of wool that has undergone a treatment using chlorine gas, which makes it highly resistant to shrinking and machine washable. The method modifies the surface of the wool fiber, making it smoother and less prone to felting and shrinkage.
The chlorination process involves treating the wool fibers with a solution of chlorine gas and water, followed by a thorough rinsing to remove any residual chlorine. The treatment can be carried out during different stages of wool production, including raw wool, yarn, and finished fabrics.
Chlorinated wool presents several advantages compared to its unprocessed counterpart, which includes improved dimensional stability, increased resistance to shrinkage and felting, and easier care. This makes it highly suitable for fashion and home essentials that require frequent cleanings, such as woolen blankets and sweaters.
However, some people are concerned about the environmental impact of chlorination, as it can produce harmful byproducts and waste. As a result, alternative methods of wool treatment, such as superwash processing, have been developed that offer similar benefits without the use of chlorine.
