Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/6445
Title: The Metrology and Potential for Genetic Improvement of Felting in Superfine/Fine Wool Merino Sheep
Contributor(s): Barton, Sally Anne (author); van der Werf, Julius  (supervisor)orcid ; Purvis, Ian (supervisor)
Conferred Date: 2007
Copyright Date: 2004
Open Access: Yes
Handle Link: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/6445
Abstract: Potential sales of woollen garments are reduced due to the perception that woollen garments require special laundering to avoid shrinkage. Shrinkage, otherwise known as felting, is a result of interaction between adjacent fibres. Felting is not always undesirable. However, a significant proportion of superfine/fine Merino wool is manufactured into garments in which shrinkage is unwanted. The propensity for a garment to shrink can be reduced through chemical shrinkproofing but these techniques are not only detrimental to the dye affinity of the fibre and handle of the fabric but produce environmentally degrading residues and, as such, are an environmental and economic burden to the international and Australian wool industry. This thesis investigates selective breeding for animals with reduced loose-wool felting propensity as a means of reducing the need for harmful chemical shrinkproofing techniques. Initially, the variance components of the cuticle scale characteristics of superfine/fine wool Merino fibres are quantified and optimal sampling schemes established. The economic cost of measurement and the poor correlated response of loose-wool felting to selection for cuticle scale characteristics (< 0.24g/cm³ ) leads to the conclusion that the measurement and inclusion of cuticle scale characteristics in superfine/fine wool Merino breeding programs is not a viable means of reducing loose-wool felting. Consequently, previously reported methods of measuring loose-wool felting are investigated. These methods involve the measurement felt ball density. Felt ball density is proportional to the likelihood of that sample felting. Parameter estimation studies, aimed at quantifying the relationships between felt ball density and routinely measured traits of superfine/fine wool Merinos, are conducted.
Publication Type: Thesis Doctoral
Rights Statement: Copyright 2004 - Sally Anne Barton
HERDC Category Description: T2 Thesis - Doctorate by Research
Appears in Collections:Thesis Doctoral

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