Maintenance of wool fibers Washing Bleaches degrades wool and should not be used Dry heat makes fiber brittle Relatively high resistance to acid Decomposition due to bacteria enzymes, moths and beetles harm wool esp. when stained: moth balls and cedar chests recommended Low flammability: self-extinguishes due to high water content(need high energy to get rid of water) chemical absorption: easily absorbs large amount of oil: good for remove oil spillage or toxic chemicalsMaintenance of wool fibers Washing: – Bleaches degrades wool and should not be used. – Dry heat makes fiber brittle – Relatively high resistance to acid – Decomposition due to bacteria & enzymes, moths and beetles harm wool esp. when stained: moth balls and cedar chests recommended – Low flammability: self-extinguishes due to high water content (need high energy to get rid of water) – chemical absorption: easily absorbs large amount of oil: good for remove oil spillage or toxic chemicals