Wool grease and fatty substances derived therefrom (including lanolin)

HS code 150500 covers wool grease and fatty substances derived from wool, including lanolin. This industry plays a vital role in the broader textile and personal care sectors, providing essential raw materials and ingredients. Wool grease is a valuable byproduct of wool processing, and its extraction and refinement contribute significantly to the overall economic value of the wool industry.

The production of wool grease and related fatty substances involves the extraction and purification of the natural oils present in wool fibers. This is typically achieved through a combination of mechanical processing, chemical treatment, and distillation techniques. The raw wool is first cleaned and degreased, after which the wool grease is separated, refined, and processed into various grades and forms suitable for different applications.

The primary input for this industry is raw wool, which is sourced from sheep and other wool-producing animals. In addition to the wool, the production process requires various chemicals and solvents for the extraction and purification of the wool grease. Specialized equipment, such as centrifuges, distillation columns, and filtration systems, are also essential for the efficient and high-quality production of wool grease and related products.

The main outputs of this industry are wool grease and its derivatives, which find applications in a wide range of industries. Wool grease is used as a lubricant, emulsifier, and waterproofing agent in the textile industry, and it is also a key ingredient in the production of 340500 Soap; organic surface-active products and preparations for use as soap, in the form of bars, cakes, moulded pieces or shapes, whether or not containing soap, 340600 Candles, tapers and the like, and 330499 Preparations for use on the hair, n.e.s..