Supertough and highly stretchable silk protein-based films with controlled biodegradability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Protein-based biopolymers offer sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics.
• Scalable fabrication of high-performance, functional protein materials remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a scalable, aqueous-based method for fabricating superior silk protein films.
• To achieve enhanced mechanical properties, tunable degradability, and functionalization capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Controlled molecular self-assembly (CMS) of silk proteins with plasticizers (glycerol) and salt ions (calcium).
• Fabrication of silk protein-based films in an aqueous environment.
• Characterization of mechanical properties, enzymatic degradability, cytotoxicity, and biocompatibility.
• Patterning via laser cutting and functionalization with bioactive components.

Main Results:

• Achieved silk films with high toughness (64±5 MJ/m³) and stretchability (up to 574±31%).
• Demonstrated tunable enzymatic degradability, low in vitro cytotoxicity, and good in vivo biocompatibility.
• Successfully patterned and functionalized films for advanced applications.

Conclusions:

• The developed CMS approach provides a facile route to scalable production of high-performance silk protein films.
• These functional silk films hold significant potential for applications in flexible electronics, tissue engineering, and bioplastic packaging.