Labs

Overview

Below is an outline of our current fiber testing capabilities. This page will be updated as our lab infrastructure expands. For all service inquires, account setup, and questions, please email carpec2@rpi.edu.

We accept animal fibers (wool, alpaca, etc.) and plant/bast fibers (hemp, flax, etc.)

Note: We also accept other natural, regenerated, synthetic, and novel fibers. Please email carpec2@rpi.edu for specific submission protocols regarding these materials.

Micron Testing (Average Fiber Diameter)

Cost: $5.00 per sample

Note: Please email carpec2@rpi.edu to register for an iLab account (RPI's secure lab management system) before mailing samples. You will receive an invoice via email after testing is complete.

1. Sample Collection Guidelines

A. Animal Fibers (Wool, Alpaca, Mohair)

  • Location: Collect a 2" × 2" sample shorn close to the skin from the mid-side of the animal.

  • Preparation: Do not over compress. Keep the staple structure intact. For the most accurate results, keep the fibers aligned in their natural direction (cut side vs. tip side).

B. Plant/Bast Fibers (Hemp, Flax)

  • Size: Submit a small bundle of fiber approximately 2” x 2”

  • Length: Cut or select a section approximately 3–6 inches long (representative of the fiber).

  • Preparation: Fibers must be combed clean of woody core (hurd/shive). Keep fibers aligned parallel if possible.

C. Other Fibers (Regenerated, Man-Made, etc.)

  • Please email carpec2@rpi.edu prior to submission to discuss sampling requirements for your specific material.

2. Packing & Labeling

Packaging: Place each sample in an individual, sealable bag (e.g., Ziploc). Tip: For the most accurate results, keep all fibers aligned in their natural direction.

Required Information: Include a slip of paper inside the bag (or write clearly on the bag) with:

  • Sample ID (Tag #, Batch #, or Name)

  • Fiber Category (e.g., Wool, Hemp, Alpaca)

  • Breed / Variety

  • Age / Crop Year

3. How to Submit Your Sample

Step 1: Package for Mailing Place your individual sample bags into a larger envelope or sturdy mailer.

Step 2: Contact Information Include a sheet in the envelope or write on the outside:

  • Contact Name

  • Farm / Company / Organization Name

  • Email Address (Required for sending results/invoicing)

Step 3: Mail To

Clyde Carpenter

CII 8009

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

110 8th St.

Troy, NY 12180-3590

3. What You Receive

We utilize an OFDA 2000 for optical fiber diameter analysis. Your report will include:

  • Average Fiber Diameter (Micron average)

  • Standard Deviation (Uniformity of the fleece)

  • Coefficient of Variation (CV)

  • Comfort Factor (% of fibers under 30 microns)

  • Histogram Graph (Visual distribution of fiber diameters)

  • Micron Profile Graph (Variation along the staple length)

Turnaround Time: Please allow 1-2 Weeks from receipt of samples for results.

Sample Return: Samples are kept as records after testing and will not be returned.