Keratin fibers are primarily the wools and hairs of various mammals, characterized by their durable, insoluble, and chemically unreactive properties and complex structure and varying chemical compositions.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Composition and Source: Keratin fibres are derived mainly from the hair and wool of mammals.
- Structure: They possess a highly complex structure. This complexity contributes to their unique properties.
- Properties: Keratin fibers are known for being:
- Durable: They can withstand wear and tear.
- Insoluble: They don't dissolve in water or common solvents.
- Chemically unreactive: They resist reacting with many chemicals.
- Varied Composition: The exact chemical composition can differ depending on the source of the keratin (e.g., different types of wool or hair).
In essence, keratin fibers represent a robust class of biological materials prized for their strength and resistance.
