Sericin-based polyester textile for medical applications

Sericin, a silk protein, has high potential for use in biomedical applications. It has important attributes such as excellent oxygen permeability, cell protecting and antioxidant action, moisture regulating ability, protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and microbes, wound healing, anticancer and anticoagulant properties. Sericin, however, has no direct affinity for textiles. In this study conditions for imparting a durable finish to polyester, based on sericin have been optimized. Ten grams per litre of sericin concentration with 10 mL/L of glutaraldehyde cured at 130 degrees C for 2 min was found to give best application. Sericin content in finished samples was estimated by measuring the colour value of treated fabrics dyed with Methylene Blue. SEM analysis showed creation of nano-roughness on the surface of polyester after exposure to UV light and smoothening of fabric surface after application of sericin. Treated samples showed enhanced vertical wicking and moisture regain. They also exhibited improved antistat, ultraviolet protection and radical scavenging activity. These properties make sericin-treated fabrics suitable for use as medical textiles in wound dressings and for healing abrasive skin injuries in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis, pressure ulcers and rashes.