  Modelling of single cellulose fibres is usually performed by assuming
homogenous properties, such as strength and Young s modulus, for the whole
fibre. Additionally, the inhomogeneity in size and swelling behaviour along the
fibre is often disregarded. For better numerical models, a more detailed
characterization of the fibre is required. Herein, we report a method based on
atomic force microscopy to map these properties along the fibre. A fibre was
mechanically characterized by static colloidal probe AFM measurements along the
fibre axis. Thus, the contact stress and strain at each loading point can be
extracted. Stress strain curves can be obtained along the fibre. Additionally,
mechanical properties such as adhesion or dissipation can be mapped. The
inhomogeneous swelling behaviour was recorded via confocal laser scanning
microscopy along the fibre. Scanning electron microscopy measurements revealed
the local macroscopic fibril orientation and provided an overview of the fibre
topology. By combining these data, regions along the fibre with higher
adhesion, dissipation, bending ability and strain or differences in the contact
stress when increasing the relative humidity could be identified. This combined
approach allows for one to obtain a detailed picture of the mechanical
properties of single fibres.
