Accessibility navigation


Young's modulus varies with differential orientation of keratin in feathers

Cameron, G. J., Wess, T. J. and Bonser, R. H. C. (2003) Young's modulus varies with differential orientation of keratin in feathers. Journal of Structural Biology, 143 (2). pp. 118-123. ISSN 1047-8477

Full text not archived in this repository.

It is advisable to refer to the publisher's version if you intend to cite from this work. See Guidance on citing.

To link to this item DOI: 10.1016/s1047-8477(03)00142-4

Abstract/Summary

Feathers are composed of a structure that, whilst being very light, is able to withstand the large aerodynamic forces exerted upon them during flight. To explore the contribution of molecular orientation to feather keratin mechanical properties, we have examined the nanoscopic organisation of the keratin molecules by X-ray diffraction techniques and have confirmed a link between this and the Young's modulus of the feather rachis. Our results indicate that along the rachis length, from calamus to tip, the keratin molecules become more aligned than at the calamus before returning to a state of higher mis-orientation towards the tip of the rachis. We have also confirmed the general trend of increasing Young's modulus with distance along the rachis. Furthermore, we report a distinct difference in the patterns of orientation of beta-keratin in the feathers of flying and flightless birds. The trend for increased modulus along the feathers of volant birds is absent in the flightless ostrich.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Science > School of the Built Environment > Construction Management and Engineering
ID Code:11815
Uncontrolled Keywords:feather keratin, X-ray diffraction, Young's modulus, DROMAIUS-NOVAE-HOLLANDIAE, AMINO-ACID SEQUENCE

University Staff: Request a correction | Centaur Editors: Update this record

Page navigation