Human Hair Fibers Research Articles

Unveiling the potential of confocal raman spectroscopy in the analysis of oil permeation in human hair fibers

Unveiling the potential of confocal raman spectroscopy in the analysis of oil permeation in human hair fibers

Quantifying the effects of repeated dyeing: Morphological, mechanical, and chemical changes in human hair fibers

As hair dyeing gains popularity across all age groups, concerns about the potential damage caused by chemical treatments are also on the rise. Chemical dyes have a multifaceted impact on hair fibers, affecting their morphology, physical structure, and protein composition. In a comprehensive study, we investigated the alterations in morphological and mechanical properties, as well as the chemical composition of hair fibers following continuous dyeing. Our analysis employed various techniques, including atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and tensile strength measurements. To assess the cumulative damage resulting from repeated dyeing, we progressively increased the number of dyeing up to 10. Surprisingly, even a single dyeing session inflicted noticeable harm on the hair. However, the detrimental effects escalated significantly when hair underwent three or more consecutive dye treatments. While the mechanical properties and protein composition exhibited non-linear changes with increasing the number of dyeing, we observed that nanoscale damage to the cuticle surface intensified proportionally with the number of dyeing. These results highlight the critical need to consider the impacts of hair dyeing practices on both the health and the structural integrity of hair.

Comparative Study of Reinforced Concrete Using Human Hair and Aluminum Fibres

This study investigates the efficacy of human hair and aluminum fibres as reinforcements in concrete, analyzing their impact on compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths. Different fibre percentages (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% by weight of cement) are systematically incorporated into concrete mixtures. Compressive strength tests on cubes, flexural strength assessments on beams, and tensile strength evaluations on cylinders reveal insights into the material's load-bearing, bending, and stretching capacities. Human hair-reinforced concrete showed significant improvements in compressive strength. Results indicate a gradual strength increase in Human Hair Fibre Reinforced Concrete (HHFRC) up to an optimal percentage. At the same time, Aluminum Fibre Reinforced Concrete (AFRC) shows significant enhancement in higher fibre content. AFRC's superior mechanical properties stem from aluminum fibres high tensile strength and stiffness, enhancing bond formation and resulting in denser, stronger concrete. These findings inform the selection of fibre reinforcement for concrete structures tailored to specific project needs.

Weak Hydrogen Bonds in Temporary Shape Changes of Curly Human Hair Fibers: Preliminary Evidence

Weak Hydrogen Bonds in Temporary Shape Changes of Curly Human Hair Fibers: Preliminary Evidence

A comprehensive study on the impact of human hair fiber and millet husk ash on concrete properties: response surface modeling and optimization

Revolutionizing construction, the concrete blend seamlessly integrates human hair (HH) fibers and millet husk ash (MHA) as a sustainable alternative. By repurposing human hair for enhanced tensile strength and utilizing millet husk ash to replace sand, these materials not only reduce waste but also create a durable, eco-friendly solution. This groundbreaking methodology not only adheres to established structural criteria but also advances the concepts of the circular economy, representing a significant advancement towards environmentally sustainable and resilient building practices. The main purpose of the research is to investigate the fresh and mechanical characteristics of concrete blended with 10–40% MHA as a sand substitute and 0.5–2% HH fibers by applying response surface methodology modeling and optimization. A comprehensive study involved preparing 225 concrete specimens using a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 with a water-to-cement ratio of 0.52, followed by a 28 day curing period. It was found that a blend of 30% MHA and 1% HH fibers gave the best compressive and splitting tensile strengths at 28 days, which were 33.88 MPa and 3.47 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the incorporation of increased proportions of MHA and HH fibers led to reductions in both the dry density and workability of the concrete. In addition, utilizing analysis of variance (ANOVA), response prediction models were created and verified with a significance level of 95%. The models' R2 values ranged from 72 to 99%. The study validated multi-objective optimization, showing 1% HH fiber and 30% MHA in concrete enhances strength, reduces waste, and promotes environmental sustainability, making it recommended for construction.

Stabilization of Expansive Soil Mixture Using Human Hair Fibre (Biopolymer)

Expansive soils sensitivity to volumetric change is one of the well-known challenges in the field of geotechnical engineering. Various attempts have been made by researchers to solve this problem. Current research presents the effect of human hair fibers on the behavior of expensive soils. A reconstituted soil of 80% kaolin as raw material and 20% bentonite with different percentages of human hair (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%) was used. The microstructure of the formulations was characterized by studying the interactions between soil and human hair using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microstructure of the formulations was characterized by studying the interactions between soil and human hair using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, swelling parameters, compressibility and shear strength were also examined. The results of this study indicate that the inclusion of human hair fibers significantly improves the properties of the expansive soil mixture. These results open up new prospects for the stabilization of expansive soils.

A Research Article on Sustainable Construction Material

The construction industry is facing increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts and address resource scarcity. Sustainable construction materials play a pivotal role in achieving these goals by reducing carbon emissions, minimizing waste generation, and promoting circular economy principles. This research article provides a comprehensive review of advancements in sustainable construction materials, encompassing various categories such as recycled materials, bio-based materials, and low-carbon alternatives. It explores a wide array of materials such as Human Hair fiber, bamboo, coconut fiber, and more. Each material's sustainable attributes, including recyclability, durability, energy efficiency, and reduced environmental impact, are thoroughly examined. Furthermore, the review investigates the manufacturing processes, life cycle assessment, and environmental performance of these materials. It discusses the challenges and barriers to the widespread adoption of sustainable construction materials, including cost considerations, regulatory hurdles, and technological limitations.

Study on the physicochemical properties of human hair fiber‐reinforced modified epoxidized soybean oil‐based composites

This paper investigates the effect of fiber surface treatment on various properties of hair fiber reinforced composites. Human hair fiber reinforced modified epoxidized soybean oil based composites were prepared by compression molding technique. Acid treatment of hair fibers was carried out by using three different concentrations of HCl solution (0.25%, 0.75%, and 1%, respectively) in order to achieve improvement in adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. Epoxidized soybean oil was modified using methacrylic acid and methacrylic anhydride to form methacrylic anhydride modified epoxidized soybean oil. Rosin acid derivative (a rigid comonomer) was prepared and used as a crosslinker. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy was carried out to study the interaction among the components of the composites. Various properties, namely, mechanical, thermal, flame resistance, and chemical resistance were checked. Scanning electron microscopy of the fractured surface of the composites was carried out to examine the morphologies. Hair fibers treated with 0.75% of HCl showed maximum improvement in all the properties and could be employed as reinforcement in various composites to be used for structural applications.

Utilisation of human hair wastage from local saloons as reinforcement for improving the mechanical properties of zucchini fibre reinforced polypropylene biocomposite

ABSTRACT Solid waste management is an urgent issue in the current day and age, with the utilisation of refuse materials being essential to reduce environmental contamination. The usage of sustainable and biodegradable biocomposites from these wastages is becoming more widespread in research. This work incorporated human hair from local saloon to strengthen the mechanical performance of the zucchini fibre reinforced polypropylene biocomposite. Zucchini fibre was first reinforced in the polypropylene matrix through hot-pressing with various fibre loading levels (5,10,15, and 20 wt%). Subsequent to this, hybrid bio-composites were produced by merging human hair and zucchini fibre in the polypropylene matrix, with a ratio of 1:1. Measuring the mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural and impact of each composite revealed that hybrid bio-composites reinforced with both human hair and zucchini fibre outperformed those reinforced only with zucchini fibre in terms of mechanical properties at each fibre loading level. Scrutiny of SEM analysis revealed that the hybrid biocomposite reinforced with human hair and zucchini fibre had a better fibre distribution, thereby justifying the improved mechanical properties. The 10% fibre loaded hybrid biocomposite attained the optimal mechanical properties among all samples, showcasing an 11.35% increase in tensile strength compared to pure polypropylene. All these qualities make this composite ideal for use in automobile interiors.

Assessing Novel Fiber Reinforcement Against Conventional Mix by Using Both Natural and Synthetic Fibers in Concrete with Statistical Performance Analysis

This research investigates the effect of incorporating innovative human hair fibers (HHF) and polypropylene fibers (PPF) into concrete, which has been observed to enhance the material’s strength characteristics. These fibers augment the concrete’s tensile strength and resilience, fortifying it against cracks and elevating its overall endurance. This research delves into the impact of reinforcing concrete specimens with human hair and polypropylene fibers. These specimens are employed in cube, cylinder and flexural beam tests. Both fresh and hardened properties, such as compaction factor and slump, and compressive, split-tensile, and flexural strength at varying curing periods (28 days and 90 days) and the ratios (1%, 2%, and 3%) are considered by weight of cement. Specifically, the 3% polypropylene fiber concrete mix exhibited the highest average compressive strength at both 28 and 90 days, while the 2% polypropylene fiber mix showed the highest split-tensile strength. Flexural strength results followed a similar trend. Results show that 3% HHF addition leads to notable improvements in concrete strength properties, albeit not as significant as with polypropylene fibers. Statistical analysis, including independent samples Kruskal–Wallis tests, was conducted to compare the distributions of strength values across different groups. The statistical analysis indicates significant differences in strength distributions across groups, with p-values below the significance level of 0.05. This underscores HHF’s potential as a sustainable alternative in construction applications, contributing to enhanced concrete strength.

Characterization of the mechanical properties of the cortex region of human hair fibers by multiparametric atomic force microscopy mapping

We show the benefit of the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM) in spectroscopy force mode (FV: force volume) for evaluation of the cosmetic active effectiveness in improving the mechanical properties of human hair fibers cortex region. For this, we characterized human hair fibers without and with chemical damage caused by bleaching process. Fiber and resin (embedding material) data were obtained simultaneously in the mapping in order to have the resin data as a reference to ensure a coherent comparison between data from the different fiber groups. Our AFM results, which were evaluated using statistical tests, demonstrated the degradation of fibers after bleaching, corroborating the findings of transmission electron microscopy analysis and the effectiveness of a cosmetic active ingredient in improving the Young's modulus (elastic modulus) (E) of the damaged fibers. We also found a radial decrease in the natural logarithm of Young's modulus ln(E) along the cross-section of the active group fiber, which is compatible with confocal Raman spectroscopy analysis by other authors, demonstrating variation of the active permeation with depth. We note that Young's modulus was also determined by a tensile tester (macro-scale technique), in which it was not possible to obtain statistically significant differences between the groups, evidencing the advantage of the FV-AFM analysis. We also found an increase in ln(E) accompanied by a decrease in maximum adhesion force between tip and sample (negative Pearson correlation coefficient). This result can be explained by the fact that structures composed of hydrophobic components have a higher Young's modulus than structures composed of hydrophilic components.•Bleaching damage and cosmetic hair treatment assessed by AFM, TEM, and tensile tester.•Young's modulus by AFM nanoindentation of hair fibers monitored by sample standard.•Young's modulus changes radially along the cross-section due to the cosmetic active.•AFM data show statistically significant differences among sample groups.•Tensile tester was not able to show statistically significant differences.

Potential use of human hair fibers for reinforcement and thermal insulation in construction

Potential use of human hair fibers for reinforcement and thermal insulation in construction

Analyzing and examining the impact of various fiber types on the mechanical and functional characteristics of UHPC

In this research, we compared the performance and mechanical properties of (UHPC) produced with varying percentages of waste and recycled fibers, including polypropylene plastic (plastic sack fibers) (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), date palm fibers (DP), Monterey pine tree fibers (MP), human hair (HH), and aluminum (from metal cans) (AF). This was done in relation to a control sample of UHPC (WC). The study investigated the effects of different percentages of these fibers (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 percent by weight of cement) with a length of 3 cm in self-compacting concrete. We conducted tests on fresh concrete, including Slump Flow, J-Ring, V-Funnel, L-Box, and U-Box, as well as tests on hardened concrete, such as compressive strength, tensile strength, permeability, crack width control, thermal cracking, Schmidt hammer tests, and ultrasonic pulse velocity. The results indicated that increasing the percentage of fibers (PP, PET, DP, AF, MP, and HH) in UHPC enhances tensile strength, reduces permeability, and increases compressive strength. Additionally, under the influence of temperature, a decrease in both the depth and length of cracks was observed in the concrete slabs. Notably, the inclusion of 2% human hair fibers (HH) in UHPC resulted in superior tensile strength, reduced permeability, and minimized both the length and depth of cracks compared to other fiber types. Conversely, the addition of 2% aluminum fibers (AF) led to a reduction in tensile strength, an increase in permeability, and an increase in both the length and depth of cracks. This research demonstrated that, in terms of mechanical and functional properties, human hair fibers provided better results in UHPC across all tests conducted, significantly enhancing the longevity of the structure.

Use of animal fiber-reinforcement in construction materials: A review

Although natural fibers (NFs), among which animal fibers (AFs) are found, have been used for millennia as reinforcement scheme of some construction materials (CMs), it is not until recent decades when scientific studies have been carried out to quantitively evaluate the impact of adding NFs into CMs, but with a special focus on vegetal fibers (VFs) over AFs. Nevertheless, there have been several studies addressing the use of AFs in different CMs and, therefore, the need of a systematic review study is evident. To contribute to this research gap, this paper presents a comprehensive review study addressing available scientific information of different types of AFs (e.g., sheep wool fibers (SWFs), chicken feathers fibers (CFFs), human hair fibers (HHFs), pig hair fibers (PHFs), silk fibers (SFs), and dog hair fibers (DHFs)) and also their use in four specific different CMs matrices (i.e., cementitious, gypsum, soil and polymer matrices). This comprehensive search was conducted in Web of Science and Science Direct, two of the largest and more prestigious scientific databases, using specific keywords and Boolean operators and the selection of the papers was based on the provision of enough quantitative information of the mixtures (e.g., specific characteristic and dosages of AFs and matrix used) as well as experimental findings. As a result of this study, organized, summarized and sufficient information is provided to support the positive use of AF as reinforcement scheme to improve some physical/thermal/mechanical/damage/durability properties of CMs by taking advantage of the abundance of these resources worldwide. Moreover, the use of AFs might also provide environmental benefits and cost reductions, which are global objectives within the construction sector. Finally, this review study found that there are still several research gaps in the use of particular AFs (e.g., DHFs) as well as combinations between the AFs and the CMs addressed in this study (e.g., effects of PHFs in polymer matrices) and these gaps are recommended as future studies.

Experimental Study On Mechanical Behaviour Of Human Hair Reinforced Concrete

Fibre-reinforced concrete offers a practical and cost-effective solution for addressing micro-cracks and similar structural weaknesses in concrete. Traditional concrete is inherently weak in tension, necessitating measures to enhance its performance in this regard. One unconventional yet promising option for reinforcement is human hair due to its impressive tensile strength. Human hair fibres (HF) are readily available, affordable, and do not degrade quickly, which can contribute to environmental concerns. This study aims to investigate the impact of incorporating human hair fibres into plain cement concrete, with a focus on enhancing compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, and crack prevention while promoting economic and eco-friendly concrete practices.
 Prior to incorporating human hair fibres into the concrete mix, a meticulous cleaning process involving acetone is carried out. Experimental assessments were conducted on concrete beams, cubes, and cylinders, utilizing various proportions of human hair fibres (0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by weight of cement). The findings reveal that the introduction of human hair fibres as reinforcement leads to a noteworthy enhancement in concrete performance. Specifically, with a 2% inclusion of human hair fibres, we observed a 3.29% upsurge in compressive strength, a 10.87% increase in tensile strength, and a 12.69% improvement in flexural strength in comparison to traditional concrete.

Transforming human hair fibers into carbon dots: Utilization in flexible films, fingerprint detection, counterfeit prevention and Fe3+ detection

Creating environmentally-friendly fluorescent carbon quantum dots (HCQDs) from human hair is a straightforward process with versatile applications. These HCQDs, derived from non-toxic hair, are produced through a one-step microwave (MW) method and have gained increasing attention due to their exceptional properties. Despite the availability of various advanced HCQDs, their full potential remains untapped. Thanks to their remarkable optical characteristics, HCQDs serve as highly sensitive nano-probe agents for the fluorometric measurement of Fe3+ ions. The fluorescence (FL) intensity of the nano-probe exhibits a linear correlation with Fe3+ ion concentration ranging from 0 to 50 μM, boasting a limit of detection (LoD) of approximately 0.13 μM. This sensitivity is achieved through resonance energy/electron transfer-induced FL quenching. Remarkably, carbon dots (CDs) obtained from human hair function as ink-free patterned substrates, making them ideal for printing and the nondestructive collection and detection of latent fingerprints (LFPs). Immersing LFPs in HCQDs@poly(vinyl alcohol) (HCQDs@PVA) solution yields flexible, transparent films with consistent luminescent LFPs and clear ridge features for accurate personal identification. Importantly, this technique allows for the lifting and identification of long-term exposed LFPs from various surfaces without causing any damage. The segregation of HCQDs within the polymer matrix during film formation is the mechanism responsible for LFP collection and visualization. Overall, HCQDs@PVA composites exhibit outstanding performance, suitable for applications in fluorescent patterns, flat panel displays, LFP analysis, and anti-counterfeiting (AC) labeling.

Changing human hair fibre colour and shape from the follicle

IntroductionNatural hair curvature and colour are genetically determined human traits, that we intentionally change by applying thermal and chemical treatments to the fibre. Presently, those cosmetic methodologies act externally and their recurrent use is quite detrimental to hair fibre quality and even to our health. ObjectivesThis work represents a disruptive concept to modify natural hair colour and curvature. We aim to model the fibre phenotype as it is actively produced in the follicle through the topical delivery of specific bioactive molecules to the scalp. MethodsTranscriptome differences between curly and straight hairs were identified by microarray. In scalp samples, the most variable transcripts were mapped by in situ hybridization. Then, by using appropriate cellular models, we screened a chemical library of 1200 generic drugs, searching for molecules that could lead to changes in either fibre colour or curvature. A pilot-scale, single-centre, investigator-initiated, prospective, blind, bilateral (split-scalp) placebo-controlled clinical study with the intervention of cosmetics was conducted to obtain a proof of concept (RNEC n.92938). ResultsWe found 85 genes transcribed significantly different between curly and straight hair, not previously associated with this human trait. Next, we mapped some of the most variable genes to the inner root sheath of follicles, reinforcing the role of this cell layer in fibre shape moulding. From the drug library screening, we selected 3 and 4 hits as modulators of melanin synthesis and gene transcription, respectively, to be further tested in 33 volunteers. The intentional specific hair change occurred: 8 of 14 volunteers exhibited colour changes, and 16 of 19 volunteers presented curvature modifications, by the end of the study. ConclusionThe promising results obtained are the first step towards future cosmetics, complementary or alternative to current methodologies, taking hair styling to a new level: changing hair from the inside out.

Fiber-reinforced lunar geopolymers synthesized using lunar regolith simulants

In-situ resource utilization is extremely important to not only support additive construction on the Moon but also to minimize the weight of transportation. The work outlined in this study presents a possible solution to supporting lunar additive construction by the formulation of fiber-reinforced geopolymers using lunar regolith simulants. Two types of regolith simulants were utilized to synthesize the fiber-reinforced geopolymers developed in this study (i.e., Lunar Mare Simulant (LMS-1) and Lunar Highlands Simulant (LHS-1)). The material properties and variables investigated were the simulant type, flowability, the effect of curing temperature on compressive strength, fiber type, and flexural strength. The results were supplemented with chemical and microstructural analysis. It was observed that the LHS-1 geopolymer exhibited higher compressive strength compared to that of the LMS-1 geopolymer. High-temperature curing at 93 °C and 5 % RH for 72 h was found to show a significant strength development on the LHS-1 geopolymer. However, the LMS-1 geopolymer did not show any significant strength development irrespective of curing conditions. The combination of equal proportions of LMS-1 and LHS-1 produced a geopolymer with a flow value of 94 mm, compressive strength of 29.75 MPa, and flexural strength of 2.32 MPa when cured at high temperatures. Adding basalt fibers and human hair fibers improved the flexural strength by up to 32 % and 15 %, but reduced the compressive strength. This is validated by SEM analysis which confirms that the fibers act as nucleation sites to significantly improve the flexural strength and microstructure of the lunar geopolymer.

Evaluation of the Ozone Effects on Human Hair Fiber: A Preliminary In Vitro Study

ABSTRACT Research with ozone has shown potential for applicability, including use of ozone as an environmentally friendly alternative to personal care products (PCPs). However, for hair, there are few studies indicating the safety of using ozone gas, especially when in contact with hair fiber. The aim of this study was to characterize possible physicochemical changes that may occur in hair strands exposed to ozone gas. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and profilometry for surface analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) with attenuated total reflection (ATR) for chemical analysis, Thermogravimetry, and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) for structural analysis were used. SEM and profilometry techniques showed evidence of changes in appearance of the hair fiber. While FTIR-ATR showed degradation of characteristic peaks on the hair infrared spectrum, with major changes at peaks 2920, 2851, 1633, 1235, 1075, and 1043 cm−1, also associated with the cuticle and mainly related to the cell membrane complex (CMC). Thermogravimetry and GIXRD have shown the possible effect of ozone on human hair amino acids. The results obtained indicated that ozone gas applied on human hair showed oxidative action. Therefore, additional studies are required before discussing the replacement of PCPs by gas ozone.

“Generating a eco friendly reinforced composite using human hair and analyzing it for commercial use”

This paper delves into the development and characterization of natural hair fiber-reinforced polymer composites, with a focus on their physical and mechanical attributes. Composite materials encompass ceramic matrix composites (CMC), metal matrix composites (MMC), and polymer matrix composites (PMC), with PMC being favored for its cost-efficiency and ease of production, notably employing thermoplastic polymers for recyclability. Natural fibers are gaining traction, especially in the automotive industry across Asia and Europe, due to their low density and environmental friendliness. Human hair stands out as a reinforcing material owing to its impressive tensile strength, sustainability, abundance, and keratin content. The paper addresses challenges linked to natural fibers in composites, including moisture resistance and dimensional availability. The research involves creating composites using human hair fibers, epoxy resin (polypropylene), and specific molds, varying hair fiber percentages. Detailed methodology covers materials, equipment, mold prep, specimen prep, and mathematical modeling. Tensile, flexural bending, and impact strength tests reveal insights into composite mechanics. Hair fiber additions strengthen the polymer matrix, particularly at 5 to 15 weight percentages, though flexural strength diminishes compared to non-reinforced composites. Higher hair fiber percentages enhance hardness. In conclusion, this study showcases human hair fiber's potential as a reinforcement in polymer composites, emphasizing the need for further exploration of matrix-fiber adhesion to boost composite performance. These findings contribute to the growing interest in natural fiber composites for sustainable and economical applications.