Fundamental Studies on the Interaction Between Moisture and Textiles. Part X. Moisture Sorption Properties of Wool and Hair Fibers

    January 1989 in “ Sen'i Gakkaishi ”
    Michiko Horikita, Mitsuhiro Fukuda, Akira Takaoka, Hiromichi Kawai
    Image of study
    TLDR Wool and hair fibers absorb moisture similarly due to their keratin structure, with the amount of non-crystalline areas affecting the moisture uptake.
    The 1989 study examined the moisture sorption properties of 15 types of wool and hair fibers from various animals at 30°C, using the Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (B.E.T.) model to analyze the data. The B.E.T. parameters (C, vm, and nmax) were found to be similar across the fibers, indicating a strong influence of the keratin protein composition and supermolecular structures on moisture interaction. The study revealed a linear relationship between the maximum volume of adsorbed moisture in a monolayer (vm) and the degree of noncrystallinity for wool fibers, but deviations for fibers with medulla structures. The sorbed moisture was determined to be in a highly ordered state, especially near dry conditions, and this order was maintained even at saturation. The study also measured the differential heat of moisture sorption and excess energy, further supporting the ordered state of sorbed water.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 114 results

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results
      Chapter 4: Cytomechanics of Hair

      research Chapter 4: Cytomechanics of Hair

      19 citations , January 2009 in “International review of cell and molecular biology”
      Hair's strength and flexibility come from its protein structure and molecular interactions.
      External Lipid Function in Ethnic Hairs

      research External Lipid Function in Ethnic Hairs

      7 citations , March 2019 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology”
      African hair has the most lipids, while Caucasian hair is more hydrated and stronger.
      Exogenous and Endogenous Lipids of Human Hair

      research Exogenous and Endogenous Lipids of Human Hair

      21 citations , March 2017 in “Skin research and technology”
      Removing external lipids from hair reduces moisture and increases strength, while removing internal lipids decreases water permeability.