Using surface topography to re-analyze gradients in mussel byssal threads

Abstract

Thin film instabilities have been heavily utilized in recent years in the fields of thin film production, biology and nano-fabrication. The creation of specific wrinkling and buckling patterns has been used as both a characterization and control technique. This project aims to apply the analysis of thin film wrinkling patterns to characterize the mechanical gradient in the collagenous core fiber of mussel byssal threads. Mussel byssal threads have a natural, stiff, thin outer coating that is chemically and mechanically distinct from the softer collagenous core making them a prime subject for wrinkling analysis. Past work in the area has focused on full thread strain recovery dynamics and biochemical analysis of the collagenous and coating components in an attempt to understand the physical characteristics of the mussel byssal threads.