Abstract
Tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum‘Samsun’) have xylem cell walls which are more sensitive to changes in the properties of the matrix than was predicted using current cell wall mechanical models. A model is proposed which can account for the importance of the cell wall matrix in determining the modulus of the material. This model is based on a helical spring system, with micromechanisms operating at the molecular scale. Xylem tissue fibre cells can behave as helical springs when the crosslink density of lignin is low, or they can behave like a composite sheet with fibres at an angle to the applied load when the crosslink density is high. This highlights the importance of molecular modelling when the properties of complex biological materials are being investigated.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
