Although evidence abounds on the medicinal and chemical properties of propolis, knowledge on the physical behaviour is limited. Therefore, our research aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of propolis, characterising mechanical and rheological properties plus material composition, highlighting regional variations throughout the UK. Subsequently, changing environmental parameters including UV, humidity and temperature will also be assessed determining any impact to the biophysical properties of propolis.
Initial research undertaken reveals a tensile strength of unrefined Apis mellifera propolis in the region of 0.16-0.43MPa, with reducing strength as temperatures increase. Observations during testing suggests increased proportions of resin to wax in a moulded sample increases tensile strength but also brittleness. Examination under a microscope at 50x optical zoom, illustrates the variation in distribution of wax and resin within moulded unrefined propolis samples, accounting for variations in results between samples sourced from different hives.
Taking a citizen science approach to collect propolis samples from around the UK, a robust series of measurements and tests will be conducted to collate a comprehensive data set aimed at identifying how varying compositions affect the behaviour of the material.