Structure and Mechanical Performance of Teleost Fish Scales Journal Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • ABSTRACTIn this work, we have studied the structure and mechanics of fish scales from striped bass (Morone saxatilis). This scale is about 200-300 μm thick and consists of a hard outer bony layer supported by a softer cross-ply of collagen fibrils. Puncture tests with a sharp needle indicated that a single fish scale provides a high resistance to penetration which is superior to polystyrene and polycarbonate, two engineering polymers that are typically used for light transparent packaging or protective equipment. Under puncture, the scale undergoes a sequence of two distinct failure events: First, the outer bony layer cracks following a well defined cross-like pattern which generates four “flaps” of bony material. The deflection of the flaps by the needle is resisted by the collagen layer, which in biaxial tension acts as a retaining membrane. Remarkably this second stage of the penetration process is highly stable, so that an additional 50% puncture force is required to eventually penetrate the collagen layer. The combination of a hard layer that can fail in a controlled fashion with a soft and extensible backing layer is the key to the resistance to penetration of individual scales.

publication date

  • January 1, 2012

has restriction

  • closed

Date in CU Experts

  • February 1, 2021 10:07 AM

Full Author List

  • Zhu D; Szewciw L; Vernerey F; Barthelat F

author count

  • 4

Other Profiles

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0272-9172

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1946-4274

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 1420

number

  • mrsf11-1420-oo01-05