Describing a substance or structure that does not possess a fibrous, thread-like, or filamentous form. This means the material lacks the elongated, parallel arrangement of fibers characteristic of fibrillar structures like collagen, keratin, or cellulose. non-fibrillar materials instead exhibit a more amorphous, globular, or interconnected network structure. The arrangement of atoms or molecules in a non-fibrillar substance results in different physical properties, like flexibility and tensile strength, compared to fibrillar counterparts. These materials can include liquids, gels, or solids without a readily discernible fibrous architecture.
Non-fibrillar meaning with examples
- In a non-fibrillar hydrogel, the molecules are interconnected in a network, trapping water and forming a soft, pliable material. This contrasts with a collagen-based fibrillar gel, which would possess a more aligned, fibrous arrangement. The non-fibrillar structure allows the hydrogel to conform to irregular shapes and maintain its integrity under gentle pressure.
- The intracellular matrix of many cells is often non-fibrillar. It's a complex, dynamic network of proteins and other molecules, but lacking a regular, elongated arrangement. The dynamic nature enables cellular processes like signaling and transportation. The non-fibrillar structure also allows for diffusion and molecular interactions.
- Unlike silk, the protein component of some spider webs presents in a non-fibrillar conformation that, while providing flexibility, doesn't offer the same mechanical strength as the more crystalline and fibrillar silk fibers. This allows the web to capture insects more effectively without snapping.
- The structure of certain synthetic polymers are specifically designed to be non-fibrillar. These polymers often exhibit unique properties of flexibility and stretchability which is sought after for various uses like specific types of plastics and some adhesive products.