Sustainability and Textile Potential of Tannery Wool: From Chemical Processing to Textile Valorization and Dyeing Performance

This study offers a comprehensive exploration of tannery wool, with a primary focus on three essential dimensions: morphology, chemistry, and performance. Wool, as a natural fiber, plays a central role in various textile applications, and gaining insights into these diverse aspects is crucial for maximizing its value.In our examination of wool morphology, we delve into the structure of the fibers, meticulously analyzing the influence of cuticular scales on surface properties. Through scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, we discern subtle distinctions between raw and tannery wool, providing valuable insights into the consequences of the chemical treatment. Turning to the realm of wool chemistry, our analysis of amino acid composition, conducted via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), unravels the effects of the chemical unhairing process. This exploration exposes the chemical modifications resulting from the process, offering a clear picture of how structural changes occur and how they impact wool’s morphology. Shifting our attention to moisture absorption and tensile properties, we investigate the pivotal parameter of wool’s moisture regain, a critical consideration for its utility in textiles. In parallel, we scrutinize wool’s tensile characteristics, drawing connections between moisture regain and mechanical performance. The extensive insights generated by our morphological, chemical, and mechanical characterizations will be instrumental as we proceed to the dyeing phase. Our objective is to evaluate the dye fastness of tannery wool, directly comparing it with the performance of raw wool. In sum, this comprehensive study enriches our comprehension of tannery wool, illuminating its morphology, chemical attributes, and performance. These findings lay a strong foundation for innovative applications in the textile industry, supporting the more efficient utilization of this valuable natural resource.