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The early part of the article describes unconventional uses of silk and biotechnology. On a different note, sensuous silk garments are loved all over the world, because they are pliable and comfortable to wear.
Silk's greatest appeal lies in its elegant sheen. To understand silk's allure, let us take a look into the microscopic world.
The thread produced by the silkworms is composed of two protein fibers called fibroins, which are coated in sericin, a glue-like substance. To make this into a thread suitable for processing, the cocoon is treated with steam, hot water, and chemicals to loosen the thread, before taking several threads and winding them together.
Fibroins that compose the main part of the silk have a triangular section, so they produce an optical phenomenon that reflects and absorbs light like a prism, which creates the translucence and luster typical of silk. Silk is the finest of natural fibers and threads are usually more than 1,500m in length, which makes it possible to weave light, thin, soft, yet sturdy cloth. The "mystique" born of a complex and precise natural mechanism is responsible for these attributes.
Since the skin of humans who wear silk garments is also made of proteins, silk does not irritate it. Silk is said to be effective for atopic dermatitis [and other skin disorders], because of the following benefits: It 1) absorbs and releases moisture well, is breathable, and has good heat insulation; 2) absorbs perspiration well and dries quickly; and 3) maintains cool skin temperature. It is no surprise that the apparel industry is leading a movement to have silk [clothing] recognized [by the government] as "health-promoting clothing."
But silk also has its disadvantages. It is easily affected by alkaline conditions and it discolors readily. It creases easily, does not withstand much friction, and is difficult to wash. "Hybrid silks" are an attempt to increase demand for silk by minimizing these disadvantages and maximizing its desirable properties.
The original meaning of the biological term "hybrid" is the creation of a crossbreed by interbreeding; but the word is used today in a much wider sense, as we can see in compounds like "hybrid car" and "hybrid IC." "Hybrid silk" is another such example. By combining silk threads with synthetics, new silks can be created that offset the disadvantages and build on the advantages of each their component textiles. Thus, hybrid silks are new textiles that combine the smooth texture of pure silk with attributes such as elasticity and durability. The first generation of new silks was developed 15 years ago for women's stockings and tights.
A new textile with an acrylic filament thread core entwined with silk threads is used to make socks and blouses. Heavier satin and "silky touch" knitted products—which are easy to dye, have volume, and are machine washable, yet retain the sheen and texture of silk—have also been developed. The world of silk as a textile product is growing steadily, thanks to the excellent match between technological progress and user satisfaction.
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| An exhibition of diverse silk products gathered at a single venue. |
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