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Silk Fibroin/Chitosan Blended Microparticles: Preparation, Characterization, and Oil Absorption
Ansaya Thonpho1, Suchai Tanisood1, Wilaiwan Simchuer2
1Biodegradable Polymers Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Centre of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand.
Polymers
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Silk fibroin (SF) and chitosan (CS) microparticles were synthesized for oil absorption. Blended SF/CS microparticles show tunable properties for effective oil-water separation applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Silk fibroin (SF) and chitosan (CS) are biocompatible polymers with potential applications in material science.
- Developing efficient methods for oil-water separation is crucial for environmental remediation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize silk fibroin/chitosan (SF/CS) blended microparticles.
- To investigate the influence of SF/CS ratios on microparticle properties and oil absorption capacity.
- To evaluate the potential of these microparticles for oil/water separation.
Main Methods:
- Microparticles were prepared using the water-in-oil emulsion diffusion method with varying SF/CS ratios.
- Morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Chemical interactions, thermal properties (TGA), hydrophobicity, and oil absorption capacities were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Optimal preparation conditions yielded microparticles of 50-100 micrometers.
- ATR-FTIR confirmed SF and CS interactions within blended microparticles.
- SF microparticles exhibited higher thermal stability and hydrophobicity compared to CS.
- SF microparticles showed superior absorption of used engine oil, while CS excelled with vegetable oil.
Conclusions:
- SF/CS blended microparticles possess tunable characteristics based on polymer ratios.
- The developed microparticles demonstrate promising potential for efficient oil/water separation applications.
