Unlocking the Nanomechanical Properties of Hair Surface Layers
Do you ever wonder what gives hair its strength and elasticity? Scientists have discovered that the surface layers of hair are crucial for understanding its nanomechanical properties. By using an atomic force microscope (AFM) to analyze these surface layers, they have found that the structure of the outermost surface layers is responsible for the mechanical properties of hair. The AFM measurements showed that the mechanical properties of hair are affected by the degree of surface roughness, thickness, and stiffness. Furthermore, the scientists found that the stiffness of the outermost surface layer can be increased by adding a protective coating. This provides a new way to improve the mechanical properties of hair and could lead to the development of better hair care products.
source: Phys.org