Nature of the Powder-Like Deposit on the Spinning Frame from Chlorine-Corona Treated Wool

Abstract

Wool sliver, that had undergone a corona discharge treatment in an air-chlorine atmosphere, deposited a white powder- like substance on the spinning frame. The deposit was shown by TLC and IR to be essentially protein, with a qualitative amino acid composition that suggested it originated from the wool surface (cuticle), and contained <5% lipid. The de posit contained only cysteic acid in addition to the normal amino acids. The chemical findings suggested that air-chtorine corona treatment only slightly chemically alters the surface of wool fiber. However, the scale edges of this wool in yam appeared worn and it did not normally give a positive Allwörden reaction; thus, air-chlorine-corona wool is more readily damaged by processing from sliver to yarn than untreated or air-corona wool. It is suggested that a systematic study of dyeing and finishing of air-chlorine-corona wool in fabric would be beneficial.