Spider silk has incredible tensile strength and elasticity. Per unit weight, spider silk is stronger than steel. Spider silk is being developed for some unique applications, such as bulletproof vests, and surgical procedures.

Researchers at the University of BC have found that spiders produce up to seven types of silk. Paul Guerette describes the mechanical properties of orb-web building spiders that range from Kevlar-like to rubber-like elastomeric fibers.Each gland of the spider produces a different type of silk, some become dry outside of the body, while others remain sticky.

Danish scientist, Fritz Vollrath (Discover, October, 1998) a zoologist at the University of Araneus has discovered that a spider uses a method of processing its fiber that is similar to that of manufacturing industrial fibers such as nylon. The silk is hardened by acidifying.

Spider Sutures
Spider silk may one day be used by surgeons as sutures for stitching up wounds.

Forbes.com: Charlotte's Goat an article that describes an experiment where Nigerian dwarf goats are synthesizing spider silk in their mammmary glands.

Dr, K. Augstein provides a close-up view of the orb weaver and an electron micrograph of its dragline thread.

Spider Silk
More interesting facts about this incredible material and some closeup pictures of spider silk strands.

Spider Silk Wear
Nanotechnologists are developing spider silk into armour.

Spider Woman
The Native American legend of how Spider Woman used the clay of the earth to create people.