introduction The oldest textile fiber in use Mohair is from ‘Mukhayyar’ adopted into English before 1570 from Arabic Angora goat is shorn for fiber ‘’Diamond fiber’’ for its high luster and sheen Hygroscopic in property Warm in winter season, remains cool in summer More expensive than most wool produced by sheep
Structure of mohair Mohair is covered by a layer of sheet-like hardened cuticle cells The cuticle or outer layer plays an important role for the whole fiber The outer layer or cuticle consists of a hydrophobic epicuticle---Repellent Mohair is similar in appearance to Wool The cuticle scales are quite thin and flat ____ 0.6µm in thickness
Chemical structure of mohair Mohair fiber essentially consists of protein, water, internal and external lipids, and fall into the class of protein materials, known as Keratins filament-like molecules and almost insolubility in dilute acids and alkalis Keratin fibers, such as Mohair, can be regarded as a long fibrous composite, comprising crystalline, relatively water impenetrable low Sulphur helical micro fibrils. Keratin proteins are natural polymers, formed by the linking together of amino acids units in long chains coiled in a helix.
numerical Features Mohair diameter ranges from 20 -- 40 µm Its staple length is 80 -- 180 mm Its alkali solubility is 10 – 24 ⁒ Its acid solubility is 5 – 12 ⁒ It swells in water about 36 – 46 ⁒ Its moisture regain at 65 % RH is 14.0 – 15.0 %
Physical features of mohair Lustrous -- the natural sheen of the fiber caused by light being reflected. This sheen helps dyed Mohair resist fading . Mohair is almost non-flammable. When placed under, or near, a naked flame, it tends to shrivel into a bead like ash. Durable: Mohair can be twisted or bent without damaging the fiber. This is due to its structure. Dye ability: Mohair dyes easily and brilliantly. Resistance to soiling: Due to the scales on the fiber surface This is also fine.
Categories of Mohair There are six main categories of Mohair Kid Mohair: fine, used in knit and woven fabrics Yearling Mohair: Same quality like Kid Mohair But durable so used in shawls, throws Young Adult: Coarser than first two, used in socks, mittens, blankets Adult Mohair: Good for outerwear and upholstery Mature Bucks: The coarsest Mohair, used for doll wigs, Santa clause beards and carpets Stain Mohair: It is the last Grade of Mohair