Objective To evaluate the tensile mechanical characteristics of decalcified cortical bone matrix with different thicknesses so as to provide an experimental basis for the scaffold of tissue engineering. Methods Decalcified cortical bone matrix was prepared from fresh bovine tibia with rapid decalcification techniques. Its physical characteristics including colour, texture, and so on, were observed. Then the decalcified rate was calculated. Decalcified cortical bone matrices were radially cut into sl ices with different thicknesses along longitudinal axis and divided into 4 groups: group A (100- 300 μm), group B (300-500 μm), group C (500-700 μm), and group D (700-1 000 μm). Then the sl ice specimens of each group were characterized with tensile test and histological examination. Results General observation showed that decalcified cortical bone matrix with hydrogen peroxide treatment was ivory white with good elasticity and flexibil ity. The decalcified rate was 97.6%. The tensile strength and elastic modulus of groups B, C, and D were significantly higher than those of roup A (P lt; 0.05); there was no significant difference among groups B, C, and D (P gt; 0.05). The stiffness in 4 groups increased gradually with the increasing thickness, it was significantly lower in group A than those in groups B, C, and D (P lt; 0.05), and in groups B and C than that in group D (P lt; 0.05). While there was no significant difference in ultimate strain within 4 groups (P gt; 0.05). Histologically, intact osteon was observed in every group, with an average maximum diameter of 182 μm (range, 102- 325 μm). Conclusion The mechanical properties of decalcified cortical bone matrix might depend on the integrity of the osteons. Sl ices with thickness of 300 μm or more could maintain similar mechanical properties when decalcified cortical bone matrix is used as a scaffold for tissue engineering.