Use of fractal dimension in the study of fractured surfaces of insulin zinc crystals.

The micromorphology of two types of insulin zinc crystals was characterized by computerized image analysis. It was demonstrated that one can identify the recombinant DNA crystals from those of animal origin in a blinded sample by perimeter fractal dimension analysis. Fractal dimension analysis was also applied in the study of irregularly fractured surfaces produced by thermal and mechanical stress. The results obtained suggest that the fractal dimension is related to the intensity of applied stress. The characterization of newly formed boundaries of insulin zinc crystals produced by mechanical or thermal stress could determine various surface-related kinetic processes.