#229

In this episode, Melissa and Jam dive into a listener's question about the antimicrobial properties of lanolin found in wool. They explore the composition and characteristics of wool, including its anti-odor capabilities and layers of complex proteins. The duo discusses the challenges of determining whether lanolin remains on wool after processing and its effectiveness in making wool antimicrobial. While the episode reveals that bacteria can grow on wool, it also highlights wool's unique ability to reduce odor and potentially create a microclimate unfavorable for bacteria. Ultimately, the episode showcases the ongoing mysteries and fascinating chemistry behind wool and lanolin.

00:00 Listener's Request: The Mystery of Lanolin
01:08 Introduction to Chemistry for Your Life
04:08 The Complex Chemistry of Wool
11:33 Exploring Lanolin: Properties and Uses
19:51 Exploring Lanolin in Wool
19:59 Investigating Wool's Antimicrobial Properties
20:54 Odor Reduction in Wool
21:57 Scientific Explanations and Hypotheses
24:46 Hydrophobic Properties of Wool
26:46 Wool's Interaction with Bacteria
31:04 Complexities of Wool Processing
35:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Support this podcast on Patreon
Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel

Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com

Watch our episodes on YouTube

Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

References from the Episode:

Thanks to our monthly supporters

Amanda Raymond
Emily Morrison
Kyle McCray
Justine
Emily Hardy
Ash
Vince W
Julie S.
Heather Ragusa
Autoclave
Dorien VD
Scott Beyer
Jessie Reder
J0HNTR0Y
Jeannette Napoleon
Cullyn R
Erica Bee
Elizabeth P
Rachel Reina
Letila
Katrina Barnum-Huckins
Suzanne Phillips
Venus Rebholz
Jacob Taber
Brian Kimball
Kristina Gotfredsen
Timothy Parker
Steven Boyles
Chris Skupien
Chelsea B
Avishai Barnoy
Hunter Reardon

Support this podcast on Patreon Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel

Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com

Watch our episodes on YouTube

Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Does wool actually resist odor and bacteria?

Chemistry For Your Life