Abstract
Tangential tensions are developed within the cell membranes of intact erythrocytes in viscous isotonic media, when they are subjected to large hydrodynamic shear stress. The magnitude of these tensions can be estimated by the application of elementary emulsion drop theory. The time taken for each cell membrane to rupture in response to a given tension enables an estimate to be made of the equivalent mechanical properties of the membrane. The values obtained are in excellent agreement with published estimates despite the fact that each author has used a different technique to apply the tension and a different theory to estimate it.
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