High Resolution Electron Microbeam Examination and 3D Reconstruction of Alligator Gar Scale
Abstract
Engineered laminate composites have been widely used by public and private sectors due to their high strength-to-weight and high stiffness-to-density ratios. However, engineered composites tend to be brittle, and are consequently vulnerable to delamination when impacted or penetrated when compared to biocomposites. We have completed a careful characterization of the internal structure of one such biolaminatethe scales of the alligator gar fish (Atractosteus spatula). The scales of the alligator gar are similar to teeth and possess remarkable delamination resistance when hydrated. In order to understand this resistance, it was critically important to properly characterize the various components of the scale and their interfaces. In the course of this study, we have determined: (1) the hierarchical structure of the gar scale from the millimeter down to the nanometer length scale, (2) the first detailed description of chemical variations within the garscale, (3) the nature of the interface between the hard outside portion of the scale and the boney interior, and (4) provided the detailed structural and chemical information to ERDC for use in the development of the In-House Meso-Scale Scientific and Engineering-Discrete Element Problem Solver (SE-DEPS) model.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 27, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1017252
Entities
People
- J. M. Mccaffery
- Kenneth J. Livi
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University