Abstract

A rapid procedure for measuring the volume of wool samples was developed, using a gas pycnometer. Volume was measured on midside wool samples, harvested monthly, from thirteen sheep breeds representing a range of wool medullation categories. Clean sample weights between two and ten grams and the fourth sequential volume measurement are recommended. Volume was also calculated, using the sample mass and the theoretical density of wool. Measured and calculated volumes were the same for non-medullated wools (p=0.20), but not for highly medullated wools, the measured volume was 25% greater than the calculated volume (p<0.001).

NC, Merrick, and DR Scobie

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 57, , 57-60, 1997