Quantitative Fiber Mixture Analysis by Scanning Electron Microscopy

Results are reported of a round trial on the analysis of mohair/wool blends by scanning electron microscopy conducted under the auspices of the International Mohair Association. The identification of the fibers in a blend is based on the pronounced difference in the cuticle scale height at the distal edge for mohair and wool fibers which is readily detected in the scanning electron microscope. Twenty-one samples were analyzed by three laboratories. The results show good agreement between reference and analysis results and indicate that the major component of the analysis error is the random error inherent to the microscopical approach to fiber analysis.