The advantages that wool has as a versatile textile fibre derive
from its complex physical and chemical structure. Wool is composed of more than 20 amino
acids which form long chains - or polymers - of protein. Two
different types of cells, the paracortex and the ortho-cortex,
develop into a three-dimensional corkscrew pattern, or helical
crimp, of great elasticity. The coiled springs of wool's molecular
chains contribute to the fibre's resilience. The outer cuticle and
epicotyl layers of fibre give wool its ability to shed water yet
readily admit water vapour. The fibre's structure is one of great
flexibility and adaptability to different environments.
Due to wool's intricate structure, it has a major advantage over
man-made fibres: It breaths and traps air, giving higher
thermal and acoustic ratings over other insulators. Wool can act as
a buffer or stabilizer to reduce peak humidity levels and
condensation. This has been confirmed in research conducted by the
International Wool Secretariat.