8 - Future trends in the sources, processing and applications of silk

Abstract

The preceding chapters have shown the extraordinary properties and diverse applications of silk. Although one of the oldest known fibers, new applications and insights into the structure and properties of silk are being reported continually. Further, discovery of new species that produce silk, processing techniques and increasing need for silk based materials are adding impetus to research on silk and silk based materials. In the authors’ opinion, there is also a need to look beyond silk in terms of the byproducts and coproducts generated during production and processing of silk. For instance, silk sericin is a byproduct that was usually discarded but has been found to have unique properties and suitable for medical and biotechnological applications. Similarly, pupae left after reeling, pupal litter, mulberry stems and other byproducts of sericulture and silk industry needs to be studied in detail for their structure, properties and potential applications. Recombinantly produced silk with properties similar to or exceeding that of native spider silk, understanding and reproducing the properties of silk in marine organisms are less explored and hence need deeper research and understanding. Information provided below is by no means exhaustive and is only an indication of the emerging prospects in new silk based materials and processing and potential applications of silk.