Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Processing Embryo, Eggshell, and Fungal Culture for Scanning Electron Microscopy
Published on: August 16, 2019
Relationship of eggshell ultrastructure and shell strength to the soundness of shell eggs
K M Carnarius1, K M Conrad, M G Mast
1Department of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA.
Abstract:
Factors affecting the soundness of shell eggs are of primary concern to egg processors due to substantial financial losses from cracked and leaker eggs. Ultrastructural analyses were used to examine the palisade layer width and mammillary knob layer thickness of sound, cracked, and leaker eggshells. Subjective observations were also made. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the width of the palisade layer or the mammillary knob layer among sound, cracked, and leaker eggshells. The eggshell strengths of sound, cracked, and leaker eggs were evaluated using puncture force and shell thickness measurements. Sound eggshells were found to have a significantly (P < 0.05) higher mean puncture force (35.3 N) than cracked (30.4 N) and leaker (28.4 N) eggshells. The mean puncture force values for cracked and leaker eggshells were not significantly different from each other (P > 0.05). Regression and correlation analyses indicated a significant correlation (P < 0.01; r = 0.61) between palisade layer width and puncture force. The mean shell thickness values for cracked (0.36 mm) and leaker (0.35 mm) eggs were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than those of sound eggs (0.38 mm), although cracked and leaker eggshell thickness did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). The correlation coefficient between puncture force and shell thickness was significant (P < 0.01; r = 0.56), indicating a possible relationship.
Related Concept Videos
Spongy Bone
Spongy bone is more porous, and less dense compared to compact bone. It is composed of concentric lamellae that are arranged irregularly to form the trabecular network. In some bones, the spaces between trabeculae contain red marrow, where...
Design Consideration
The factor of safety is another key aspect...
Yield Criteria for Ductile Materials under Plane Stress
The Maximum Shearing Stress Criterion, also known as the...
Soundness of Cement
Bonding and Strength of Aggregate
Unsoundness of Aggregate due to Volume Change

