#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

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.