Due to their chemical structure, feathers are poor heat conductors. Besides, they form millions of small hollows (air pockets) imbedding a large volume of air which acts as an insulating layer.
Goose and duck feathers have a curved and soft quill which brings about excellent fill power, i. e. the capacity to unfold the largest possible volume again and again, at the same time imbedding millions of insulating air pockets.
Chicken feathers, however, have a flat shape. The main part of the quill is flat, i.e. the firm shaft in the middle. They are not resilient enough to “fluff up“ again, for instance after having been compressed by the human body. Therefore, they are less suitable as filling material for pillows and duvets than the plumage of waterfowl.
Goose and duck feathers place underneath down as well as regards fill power and insulating capacities. Nevertheless, they are frequently used as filling material for pillows - partially in combination with down.
Further information at DOWNAPEDIA:
- What is meant by fill power?
- Why do down have excellent insulating capacities?
- What blends of feathers and down are suitable for pillows?
Quelle
Verband der Deutschen Daunen- und Federnindustrie e.V.
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