Diversified applications of coarse wool in various technical and industrial sectors: A review

Wool, a wonderful fibre that comes from sheep, is one of the oldest fibres of human civilization. Wool of fine (<25 μm) and medium (25 to 35 μm) grades have been used for many centuries in textile and are recognized for their comfort and richness. On the other hand, coarse wool (>35 μm), often considered inferior due to its rough texture, has been underutilized in various woollen industries. However, recent advancements in technology and innovation approaches have led to the exploration of diverse applications for coarse wool. The emerging applications of coarse wool across various sectors, including textile (carpet yarn, diversified handicraft, braided rope braided mat), home furnishing (yoga mat, quilt, mattress filling), agriculture (sapling bag, mulch, biofertilizer), biomedical (keratin film sponge, nanofiber, hydrogel), packaging (wool nonwoven roll, keratin film, loose fibre stuffing), construction (wool-cement mortar, waste wool batt, false ceiling and wall panel) and filtration (keratin nanofiber filter media, carpet, absorbent mat) have been discussed in the review. The potential use of coarse wool as a valuable resource in numerous industries, offering sustainable solutions and economic opportunities has been highlighted in the review. The future outlook for coarse wool remains promising, driven by ongoing research and development efforts aimed at unlocking its full potential and promoting sustainability across value chains.