Fibre Characteristics of Mulberry Silk Waste and Australian Merino Wool for Developing Blends

Mulberry silk waste fibre with fine (12.06 ± 0.281 mμ) but variable diameter (35 % CV) and excellent whiteness index (100.809 ± 1.070) are appropriate for blending with Australian merino wool tops exhibiting less variable diameter (27.9 % CV) and outstanding moisture regain properties (12.357 %). The higher tenacity of mulberry silk waste fibres 3.53 ± 0.153 g/denier with high elongation (34.44 ± 2.497) and lower modulus properties of Australian merino wool fibres are suitable blending with each other to incorporate better appearance, texture, warmth, comfort and strength in a blended/union fabric.