Improving Mohair Fiber Quality: Using the FibreLux Micron Meter for Accurate On-Farm Measurement

A recent article by Notayi,et al., (2024) titled “The Application of the FibreLux Instrument for Measuring the Diameter of Mohair Fibres” published in Journal of Natural Fibers by Taylor & Francis examine that solvent cleaning significantly affected the results, with clean staple samples showing an average mean fiber diameter (MFD) that was 1.21 μm finer than greasy staples.

The study delves into the application of the FibreLux Micron Meter, a technology designed to measure the diameter of mohair fibers. This investigation offers several key insights into the potential benefits and limitations of this tool in assessing fiber quality on farms. The study first addresses how the arrangement of fibers in the specimen holder and the cleaning process impact measurement accuracy. The results indicate that a random arrangement of fibers yields more precise readings compared to fibers that are carefully aligned. This finding underscores the importance of handling fibers in a manner that reflects their natural state during measurement to ensure more accurate and reliable data.

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FibreLux Micron Meter offers accurate on-farm mohair fiber diameter measurements, especially when using randomly arranged fibers.– Notayi,et al., (2024)

In terms of measurement accuracy, the study compares FibreLux readings from greasy mohair staples with OFDA100 readings from clean staples. While there is a strong correlation between the two sets of data, discrepancies in results were observed. These differences may stem from the distinct measurement processes and sample conditions (greasy versus clean) utilized by each instrument. It suggests that the FibreLux might require calibration or further refinement to align its measurements more closely with established industry standards. A major focus of the study is the potential for using the FibreLux Micron Meter on farms for direct measurement of fiber diameter. Such a tool could revolutionize the way mohair growers and breeders assess fiber quality, offering real-time insights that can inform classing, breeding decisions, and trading practices. The study recognizes the broader implications of deploying such technology within the mohair industry. Accurate on-farm measurement of fiber diameter could provide mohair producers with a competitive edge by enabling them to make more informed decisions regarding breeding and selection processes. This advantage could ultimately improve the quality and marketability of mohair, a natural fiber that faces competition from synthetic alternatives. Additionally, the ability to assess fiber quality directly on the farm could enhance transparency and trust within the supply chain, benefiting both producers and buyers.

How the Study was Conducted

The authors utilized 30 samples of greasy mohair staples with a range of mean fiber diameters (MFD) representative of the South African mohair clip. The fibers were prepared in two different test specimens: one with fibers approximately parallel to each other and the other with a more randomized arrangement. The authors employed Optical Fibre Diameter Analyser (OFDA-100) as the reference method for measuring fiber diameter. Clean and greasy fibers were tested, with clean fibers being rinsed in dichloromethane (DCM), oven-dried, and conditioned. The FibreLux Micron Meter™ was evaluated for its ability to measure the mean diameter of mohair fibers. The study investigated the effects of fiber orientation in the specimen holder and the impact of solvent cleaning on the FibreLux readings. The results from the FibreLux and OFDA tests were compared using statistical methods, including the Pearson correlation matrix, to assess the correlation between the FibreLux greasy staple results and the OFDA clean staple results. Outliers were identified and excluded from the final analysis.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that a random arrangement of fibers in the specimen holder yielded more accurate and reproducible results compared to aligned fibers. The authors also found that solvent cleaning significantly affected the results, with clean staple samples showing an average mean fiber diameter (MFD) that was 1.21 μm finer than greasy staples.

Why is this Important

Quality Control in Mohair Production: Accurate measurement of mohair fiber diameter is crucial for quality control in the mohair industry. It directly impacts the value and marketability of mohair products.
Breeding and Selection: Fiber diameter is an essential trait in breeding programs. Breeders can use this information to select animals with desirable fiber characteristics, leading to improved overall herd quality.
Trading and Classification: Precise fiber diameter measurements allow for better classification of mohair, ensuring fair trade practices. Buyers and sellers can make informed decisions based on accurate data.
On-Farm Application: The study suggests that the FibreLux instrument could be used on farms for real-time measurements. If validated, this would be a game-changer, allowing farmers to assess fiber quality without sending samples to laboratories.
Sustainability and Demand: As natural fibers gain popularity, understanding and optimizing mohair quality become essential. Sustainable practices and informed decisions benefit both producers and consumers.

What the Authors Recommend

• The authors stress the importance of additional validation for the FibreLux instrument’s accuracy and reliability. They recommend conducting extensive field trials on a variety of farms with larger sample sizes to determine the tool’s effectiveness and consistency in real-world agricultural settings.
• The authors emphasize on creation of standardized usage protocols for the FibreLux instrument is essential. By ensuring consistent procedures across different farms and laboratories, results will become more reliable and comparable, which is critical for industry-wide acceptance.
• The authors suggest that educating mohair producers on the advantages of the FibreLux instrument and its proper use is vital for its successful adoption. Training programs, workshops, and educational materials can help growers effectively incorporate the technology into their operations.
• The authors advocate for increased collaboration among researchers, breeders, and industry stakeholders. By sharing data, experiences, and knowledge, these groups can work together to advance mohair quality assessment, benefiting the entire industry.

In conclusion, the study by Notayi et al. (2024) highlights the potential of the FibreLux Micron Meter to revolutionize mohair quality assessment on farms. By providing real-time, accurate measurements of fiber diameter, this technology can empower mohair producers to make informed decisions that enhance breeding programs, improve quality control, and boost the marketability of their products. However, further validation and standardization efforts are necessary to fully integrate the FibreLux instrument into industry practices. Collaboration among researchers, breeders, and industry stakeholders will be essential in advancing mohair quality assessment and ensuring the sustainable growth of the mohair industry.

AR Managing Editor (2024). Improving Mohair Fiber Quality: Using the FibreLux Micron Meter for Accurate On-Farm Measurement. Retrieved from https://www.africanresearchers.org/improving-mohair-fiber-quality-using-the-fibrelux-micron-meter-for-accurate-on-farm-measurement/