We present a “robust” multiscale model for protein materials
constituted by macromolecules undergoing strain-induced
unfolding effects. To analyze the effectiveness of the model we
tested the macroscopic cyclic behavior of spider silks and of a
keratin proteins such as human, cow and rabbit hairs. By
adopting experimental values of the macromolecular material
parameters, we show thatthe model reproduces with surprising
accuracy the obtained experimental behavior with a strongly
non linear damage and large permanent stretches.
The proposed approach represents in our opinion a significant
step forward also in the design of new bioinspired history
dependent materials.

Giuseppe Puglisi, venerdì 8 giugno, 11.30 Sala Geotecnica Biblioteca Disg