Abstract
ABSTRACT Determinations were made of several physical properties of the viscid and frame silks of the orb-webs built by the spider Araneus sericatus (Cl.). Both types of silk show a breaking stress of approximately 1 GN/m2 and an initial resilience of approximately 0·35. The breaking extension ratio of viscid silk (λ = 3·00) is much greater than that of frame silk (λ = 1·25), and the viscid silk relaxes to a relatively greater extent. These properties are correlated with the degree of crystallization of the protein from which the silk is made, this factor being controlled by the sequence of amino acids in the protein. The physical properties of the viscid and frame silks allow them to function effectively as shock absorbers and structural elements, respectively; and allow the orb-web to function as an aerial filter with a minimum expenditure of material and energy.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
