Observations on the microclimate of the fleece

Abstract

The reaction of the fleece to moisture has been studied in terms both of relative humidity of the microclimate and of fleece moisture. The processes of wetting and drying of the fleece are by no means consistent or uniform, and behaviour varies with differing climatic conditions. Measurement of fleece moisture on the basis of relative humidity and total moisture content has shown that fleece types that are susceptible to bacterial discoloration retain moisture for a longer period than do fleece types that are generally immune from such discoloration. The effect is more marked in hogget than in adult fleeces. The importance of sensitivity of the skin to water and the part played by this in the realization of susceptibility are also discussed.