Penetration and Supercontraction of Keratin Fibers by Lithium Bromide Solutions

Abstract

With the aid of a microscope, measurements were made of the diametral swelling and degree of supercontraction of wool fibers in lithium bromide solutions at room temperature. Considerable differences were found between supercontractions measured around the orthocortical and around the paracortical sides the fibers. The mode of pentration of the solutions into the fibers was studied, and it was concluded that the epicuticle is an important barrier to the entry of the reagent. In addition, rates of supercontraction of wool, kid mohair; and human hair fibers in lithium bromide solutions at 89° and 100° C. were determined. Supercontraction-time curves exhibit three well- defined zones; an attempt is made to explain these characteristics. Some histological observations are reported.