Effect of embalming on the mechanical properties of beef bone

TLDR

The study prepared tension and compression specimens from beef femurs, with some embalmed, and measured stress‑strain curves using automated equipment to determine modulus of elasticity, ultimate strength, maximum strain to failure, and hardness. Embalsing reduced ultimate compressive strength by 12% while causing only minor decreases in ultimate tensile strength, maximum strain, and modulus of elasticity, and had no significant effect on hardness. Keywords: ultimate strength, modulus of elasticity, hardness, tensile testing, compressive testing of beef bone; submitted October 1, 1963.

Abstract

Small tension and compression specimens were made from beef femurs and alternate specimens were embalmed. The stress-strain diagrams were then obtained using automatic recording equipment. From this diagram the modulus of elasticity, ultimate strength, and maximum strain to failure were determined. The hardness of all specimens was measured. A statistical evaluation of the data indicated that embalming causes a significant reduction (12%) in the ultimate compressive strength of beef bone, but only very slight reductions in ultimate tensile strength, maximum strain, and modulus of elasticity. The change in hardness was found to be insignificant. ultimate strength of beef bone; modulus of elasticity of beef bone; hardness of beef bone; tensile testing of beef bone; compressive testing of beef bone Submitted on October 1, 1963