Asian Science
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Abstract: In this study, influence of intermolecular interactions
between Silk Fibroin (SF) and Poly (ε-Caprolactone) (PCL) in homogeneous
blend form on SF conformation changes and thermal properties of the blends
was investigated and discussed. The SF/PCL blends were prepared by solution
blending and precipitating method, respectively. Dimethylsulfoxide and
isopropanol were used as a solvent and a non-solvent, respectively. The
blends were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR),
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermo Gravimetry (TG) and Scanning
Electron Microscopy (SEM). Conformation transition of SF component from
β-sheet to random coil forms can be induced by blending with PCL.
Melting temperature and heat of melting of the PCL decreased as increasing
the SF ratio. Thermal stability of the SF can be enhanced by blending
with PCL. FTIR, DSC and TG results suggested that intermolecular hydrogen
bonds were formed between SF and PCL molecules in the blends. Homogeneous
morphology of blends was illustrated by SEM micrographs.