Revaluing wool waste: crafting high-performance wool felt spheres from discarded fibers

Textile waste poses a rapidly growing challenge. This study introduces an innovative approach to promote the recycling of kemp wool, preventing environmental pollution caused by the incineration and landfilling of this material. Leveraging the felting characteristics of kemp wool, kemp wool felt spheres (KWFS) were produced using needle-punching techniques. It was discovered that as the size and density of the spheres increased, they reached a maximum energy absorption of 27.87 J and exhibited excellent cyclic stability, hygroscopicity, and moisture dissipation performance. Furthermore, the cushioning pads made from kemp wool felt spheres (PKWFS) demonstrate outstanding compressive performance, thermal resistance, and breathability. These PKWFS are suitable for applications such as fall prevention for the elderly and protection of cultural artifacts. The reuse of discarded kemp wool in high-performance PKWFS products not only expands the practical application of waste resources but also reduces the negative environmental impacts of textile disposal.