Water absorption and dynamic load bearing properties of coarse wool braided rope mat

Value addition to coarse wool has been traditionally done through preparation of blankets, namda (floor covering) and handicrafts. Alternative methods of utilizing coarse wool include sliver felting, filling and braiding. However, braiding process is not fully exploited in the coarse wool product development. A study has been attempted to utilize Indian coarse wool in the core and three types of fibres namely wool, jute and cotton in the sheath in a braiding machine. Braided ropes were produced by varying core content. Braided mats were prepared and studied for water absorption and dynamic load bearing characteristics. It was observed that wool as a sheath fibre in the braided mat significantly improved water absorption capacity and reduced thickness loss and permanent deformation. Thickness loss, total recovery and permanent deformation were improved with an increase in wool core content up to 30%. Braided rope comprising wool sheath and coarse wool core (30% content) was found to give better braided rope mat performance.