Work

The Speed of Sound in Silk: Linking Material Performance to Biological Function

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Sonic properties of spider silks are measured independent of the web using laser vibrometry and ballistic impact providing insights into Nature's design of functionalized high-performance materials. Through comparison to cocoon silk and other industrial fibers, we find that major ampullate silk has the largest wavespeed range of any known material.

Source: Advanced Materials

DOI: 10.1002/adma.201401027

Authors: Beth Mortimer, Shira D. Gordon, Chris Holland, Clive R. Siviour, Fritz Vollrath, James F. C. Windmill

Institutions: University of Oxford, University of Strathclyde, University of Sheffield

Language: English

Topic: Silk-based biomaterials and applications

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $6,070