A simple, high-resolution, non-destructive method for determining the spatial gradient of the elastic modulus of insect cuticle.

ABSTRACT: Nature has evolved structures with high load-carrying capacity and long-term durability. The principles underlying the functionality of such structures, if studied systematically, can inspire the design of more efficient engineering systems. An important step in this process is to characterize the material properties of the structure under investigation. However, direct mechanical measurements on small complex-shaped biological samples involve numerous technical challenges. To overcome these challenges, we developed a method for estimation of the elastic modulus of insect cuticle, the second most abundant biological composite in nature, through simple light microscopy. In brief, we established a quantitative link between the autofluorescence of different constituent materials of insect cut

SUBMITTER: Eshghi SH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6127184 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature