Segment-specifity of the equine hoof - Part 2: Correlation of horn structure and mechanical-physical horn properties in the different segments of the hoof

As objectifiable criteria for assessment of horn qualify in the different segments of the equine hoof, diverse mechanical-physical material properties of the hoof horn, such as water uptake capacity, water uptake and water release rate as well as the wafer-content-dependent horn hardness, were measured. Thus, distinct segment specific differences and conspicuous intra-segment variations, e.g., in the coronary horn, were detected. Regarding the tested material properties, perioplic and outer coronary horn display the greatest differences, even though the production of these horn masses occurs in close proximity. The soft perioplic horn shows the highest water uptake capacity along with a high water uptake rate. Because of its comparatively fast water release, the water storage capacity of the perioplic horn is low. The very hard outer coronary horn, in turn, is characterised by a low water uptake capacity. As the water release into the vicinity occurs comparatively slow, the resulting water storage effect is considerable. The horn of the bulb and frog takes on an exceptional position because due to its relatively high water uptake capacity and low water release rate, this horn displays the highest water storage capacity altogether, The mechanical-physical horn properties and the horn quality are considerably influenced by the horn structure.