Mechanical properties of bio-nanostructured materials

This chapter summarizes the fundamental factors affecting the mechanical properties of nanostructured materials, with an emphasis on bio-nanostructured composites. Perhaps the most fundamental factor affecting the mechanical properties of nanostructures is that the surface properties contribute to mechanical resistance. The chapter discusses the methods by which biological organisms improve the mechanical performance at the nanoscale. The most commonly used methods for measuring the nanomechanical properties are atomic force microscopy (AFM) and nanoindentation. The chapter also includes the atomistic simulation methods, because they are proven to be incredibly important tools for the analysis and understanding of mechanical properties at the nanoscale. It describes biopolymer nanocrystals and the benefits of hydrogen bonding. Interlocking is an attachment mechanism that increases the mechanical energy required to deform, displace, debond, or fracture a material. A number of biological material structures display brilliant design strategies where interlocking occurs at the nanoscale.