A detailed research programme into new uses for coarse crossbred wool is closing in on some innovative answers that should increase farm gate returns.

Wool growers’ historical levies contributed towards funding the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand (WRONZ), which is behind the programme. Now the research has successfully created a series of new materials from deconstructed coarse wool. Its next focus is working with companies to scale up and commercialise production of these where they can be used in new industries. Ultimately, that should improve financial sustainability for growers.

Ian Cuthbertson is manager of Wool Industry Research Limited (WIRL), which is overseeing the research for WRONZ. He says the objective is to take crossbred wool off the floor.

“We need to move on from coarse wool being used largely for rugs and carpets. We have now successfully deconstructed the fibre into a suite of ingredients, potentially able to be used in a multitude of applications, from filtration to 3D printing, from wound care to flame retardants, and from artificial leather to nutrition, and that is only scratching the surface. We are now working with partners who are already in the marketplace on how best to turn these ingredients into commercially valuable products.

“Where possible, we have patented the methods of manufacture developed to create the new materials.

“We want to be able to find uses for the ingredients that will sustain a lift in farm gate returns to at least $6 per kilogram of crossbred wool, which would turn profitability around for growers. Although it will take time, that looks possible, as does ensuring an integrated supply chain to maximise returns, while also empowering growers, shearers and others in the industry,” he said.

The research builds on the work of Mirshaahin Seyed Saleh, originally from Iran, now living in New Zealand, who developed a novel process to deconstruct the fibre.

Lincoln Agritech Ltd, working with AgResearch, Deakin University, and Otago University are the main research providers to the $21 million seven-year research programme, which WRONZ is funding in a 60-40 partnership with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment.

PGG Wrightson Wool is a member of WRONZ.