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Wool in Human Health and Well-Being

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Natural Fibres: Advances in Science and Technology Towards Industrial Applications

Part of the book series: RILEM Bookseries ((RILEM,volume 12))

Abstract

This paper reviews published and unpublished literature on the role of wool in human health and well-being. Human-based investigations, or those involving human simulations (manikins) were the focus. The principal parameters in the review were skin health, physical contact between textiles/garments and human skin (tactile acceptability—prickle, friction, allergies), thermal and moisture properties, human body odour, and sleep (bed clothes/sleepwear, bedding).

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Acknowledgments

This paper is based on a review prepared for and funded by the International Wool Textile Organisation, Belgium, and Australian Wool Innovation, Sydney, Australia. Contributions to sections of that review are acknowledged and included: Mr. David Crowe, AWTA, Melbourne, Australia; Mr. Mauro Rossetti, General manager, Associazione Tessile e Salute, Biella, Italy; Mr. Pier Giorgio Minazio, European technical service manager, Woolmark Italy, Biella, Italy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand

    Raechel Laing

  2. Australian Wool Innovation, Sydney, Australia

    Paul Swan

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  1. Raechel Laing
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Correspondence to Raechel Laing .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Engineering, University of Minho , Guimarães, Portugal

    Raul Fangueiro

  2. University of Minho , Guimarães, Portugal

    Sohel Rana

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Laing, R., Swan, P. (2016). Wool in Human Health and Well-Being. In: Fangueiro, R., Rana, S. (eds) Natural Fibres: Advances in Science and Technology Towards Industrial Applications. RILEM Bookseries, vol 12. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-7515-1_2

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