Hair Mechanical Properties Depending on Age and Origin
February 2011
in “
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
”
TLDR Hair properties vary with age and ethnic origin.
The study explored the mechanical properties of hair, focusing on variations due to age and ethnic origin. Hair, primarily composed of keratin, was examined using a specially designed tensile testing machine and observed with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and interferometer. These methods allowed researchers to assess the cuticle state and fracture topography of different hair types. The study highlighted that hair's mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, can vary significantly based on factors like age and ethnic background, providing insights into hair's role as a biomaterial.