Postmortem storage of lens capsules by freezing was found to increase
capsular thickness slightly (5%). The effect on mechanical properties
was minor. Ultimate tensile strength and ultimate stiffness were not c
hanged by freezing. Ultimate strain was slightly increased (2%) and th
e elastic modulus calculated at 40% strain was decreased (20%). Frozen
capsules were found to relax to a slightly lower value than fresh one
s (2%). The results show that freezing tends to soften the tissue, pos
sibly due to an increased hydration. In spite of this effect, which ha
s to be kept in mind, postmortem freezing seems to be an acceptable st
orage method when collecting tissue for biomechanical research.