Protein structures and protein fibers—a review

The biochemistry and stereochemistry of proteins are reviewed and related to molecular structure and specifically to the properties governing fiber formation. The conformation of amino acids, polypeptides and proteins are discussed. The amino acid composition of protein is considered in relation to structure, chain length and molecular weight. General descriptions are also given for typical synthetic polypeptides as well as for non‐fibrous natural proteins used in fiber manufacture. Mechanisms and modes are presented for fiber formation including a discussion of molecular criteria involving intermolecular cohesive and crystalline configurational forces which are involved in the fiber forming process. These effects are related to treatments and processes, including thermal, mechanical and chemical modifications, which can be applied to protein for the purpose of forming fibers.