ASTM D2968-13

5.1 Test Method D2968 for the determination of med and kemp fibers by microprojection may be used for the acceptance testing of commercial shipments of wool and other animal fibers, but caution is advised since only a few types of animal fibers have been subjected to interlaboratory tests to ascertain the precision of tests for med and kemp fibers by this test method. Comparative tests as directed in 5.1.1 may be advisable.

5.2 Knowledge of the incidence of med fibers and kemp fibers in wool and other animal fibers is of importance to manufacturers of woven or knitted fabrics because of the apparent dye resistance and light reflectance qualities of these fibers. This is not to imply that all kemp fibers will resist dye and all med fibers will accept dye normally. In practice, a proportion of kemp fibers will appear normal after dyeing and a proportion of med fibers will appear chalky white after dyeing. From the perspective of visual and aesthetic problems, medullated fibers having an abnormally large diameter and a high degree of medullation are probably the worst kind.

1.1 This test method covers the determination by microprojection of the percentage of medullated fibers (med and kemp fibers) in wool or other animal fibers such as mohair, cashmere, alpaca, or camel's hair in their various forms.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.