Spinning conditions affect structure and properties of Nephila spider silk

Abstract Raman spectroscopy is used to elucidate the effect of spinning conditions upon structure and mechanical properties silk spun by Nephila spiders from major ampullate gland. Silk fibers produced under natural with rates between 2 20 mm s −1 differed in microstructure either more slowly or rapidly. The data support “uniform strain” hypothesis that reinforcing units spider are subjected same strain as fiber, optimize toughness. In contrast, case synthetic high-performance polymer fibers, both fiber experience uniform stress, which maximizes stiffness. comparison minor silks opens an intriguing window into dragline evolution first evidence significant differences two providing possibilities for further testing hypotheses concerning versus stress models. Impact statement It well established engineering materials controlled employed synthesize process them. Herein, we demonstrate situation similar a material, namely silk. We show normally produces at reeling speed , speeds outside this processing has different leads inferior tensile properties. Moreover, also generic optimized respond mechanically deformation such crystals deformed strain. This where within stress. Graphic abstract