The sorption of water by dry keratin fibers in atmospheres above 90 R.H.

摘要

AbstractUse is made of the basic concepts of a two‐phase model structure for keratin fibers, consisting of a water impenetrable phase embedded in a water penetrable matrix phase. The mechanism of water sorption of a dry fiber in liquid water or in a high humidity atmosphere is discussed. It is assumed that during moisture uptake the matrix goes into a sol‐state. Once moisture uptake is complete the matrix goes through a sol‐gel transformation. Both the torsional rigidity and longitudinal stress at low strain vary during the sorption process, and subsequently, in a manner compatible with this