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Silkworm (Bombyx mori) cocoon vs. wild cocoon multi-layer structure and performance characterization

Liu Fu-Juan (National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, China + Nantong Textile and Silk Industrial Technology Research Institute, Nantong, China + Wujiang Dingsheng Silk Co., Ltd, Shengze,)
Zhang Xi-Jia (Xihua College, Xihua University, Jinniu District, Chengdu, China)
Li Xin (Harman International Industries, Suzhou, China)

As protective shells for their biological functions against environmental damage and attack by natural predators, the silkworm (Bombyx mori) cocoon and its wild partner have distinctive multi-layer structures, which are systematically studied in this paper by the SEM, the thermogravimetric analyzer, and the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Their mechanical properties are also investigated for the whole hierarchy and each cascade as well. In order to better demonstrate the superior survivability of cocoons in harsh environments, air permeability and moisture vapor transmission rate of the silkworm cocoon are tested. The results show the silkworm cocoons have excellent air permeability and moisture vapor transmission rate. A better understanding of different cocoons’ bio-functions will be of particular importance to design thermal textiles and provide better comfort and safety for clothing in future.

Keywords: silkworm cocoon, multi-layer structure, wild cocoon, fractal calculus