The Stress-Strain Behavior of Wool in Various Swelling Media

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Abstract
Wool fibers immersed in formic acid exhibit elastic properties characterized by a low modulus, art almost linear stress-strain curve, and complete recovery from all elongations up to at least 30% elongation with little or no hysteresis. The work undertaken sought to determine whether the action of formic acid on wool was unique, by providing information about the swelling of wool and its relationship to changes in the stress-strain properties in a variety of chemicals. Several immersion media were found to affect wool in a way similar to, but not identical with, formic acid. In general, complete recovery with little hysteresis is only achieved in a fiber which has been swollen diametrically by at least 50%. Swelling in 15 acids, 16 amines, and 20 neutral media was measured at various concentrations, temperatures, and times. Twenty-one curves showing recovery from 20% strain are included.