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The Jaws of Nereis: Microstructure and Mechanical Properties

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 February 2011

Henrik Birkedal ,
Chris Broomell ,
Rashda K. Khan ,
Nelle Slack ,
Helga C. Lichtenegger ,
Frank Zok ,
Galen D. Stucky  and
J. Herbert Waite
Henrik Birkedal
Affiliation:
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Chris Broomell
Affiliation:
Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Rashda K. Khan
Affiliation:
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Nelle Slack
Affiliation:
Materials Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, U.S.A.
Helga C. Lichtenegger
Affiliation:
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Frank Zok
Affiliation:
Materials Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, U.S.A.
Galen D. Stucky
Affiliation:
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Materials Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, U.S.A.
J. Herbert Waite
Affiliation:
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
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Abstract

The jaws of the marine worm Nereis sp. are made of protein fibers and are reinforced by zinc. Here we study a transverse section through the jaw using optical microscopy and nanoindentation. Optical microscopy images demonstrate a complex microstructure which includes channels that extend throughout the jaw. We suggest that these channels may be related to jaw remodeling. The mechanical results reveal spatial variations in both indentation hardness and reduced modulus. Specifically, the toothed side of the jaw (used for grasping food) is harder than the remainder of the jaw and the very exterior surface is hardest.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 874: Symposium l – Structure and Mechanical Behavior of Biological Materials , 2005 , L2.8/K2.8
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2005

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