Artificial Wool From Jnte

Manawatu Times, Volume LV, Issue 6834, 15 April 1932, Page 6

Artificial Wool From Jnte

NEW AMERICAN DISCOVERY. HOW WILL IT AFFECT THE WOOLGROWER? United Press Association. —By Eloc:ric Telegraph.—Copyright. Received Thursday, 9.5 p.m. NEW YORK, April 13. Columbia University announces that its chemical engineering department under the direction of Professor Ralph H. McKee, has perfected the commercial production of artificial wool from jute. Prof. McKee indicates that the substitute can he manufactured for 25 cents per pound as compared with the current price of 35 cents.

While stating that the substance could hardly he distinguished from so-called “all-wool” the scientist is not ready to compare the same with fine merino in any way. Prof. McKee said when wool reaches 50 cents the price of the New York manufacture of the substitute will be commercially feasible. The equipment needed is not particularly expensive, being principally tanks and an adequate water supply. Prof, McKee is reluctant to discuss the economic factors, especially the possible effect of the process upon the woolgrowing countries of the world. He said he saw no reason why Australia should worry over the prospects of competition. He seemed to prefer to discuss the matter academically.

It is interesting to note that the university’s announcement also included news of the development and process of the manufacture of artificial diamonds of one to 20 carat size by a graduate student under the laboratory direction of Prof. McKee.