Breaking behavior of homogeneous and heterogeneous keratin composite membranes

In order to select the most suitable short fibril reinforcements for keratin matrix composite membranes,this paper analyzed the break and damage characteristics of the pure keratin membrane,and inorganic whiskers and wool fibrils reinforced heterogeneous and homogeneous keratin composite membranes respectively.Then,the effect of fibrils with bifurcated ends on the reinforcement and toughness of the composite membrane was also explored.The tensile curves were discussed by stages using microscopic photographs.The results indicated that the mechanical properties and morphology of the reinforcements have some effect on the breaking process of the composite membranes.However,the matrix mechanical properties were predominant in the composite membranes.Crack points were introduced accompanied with reinforcements,which can degrade the performance of the composite membranes,but the reinforcements with proper mechanical properties and morphology can still improve the performance of the composite membranes.