Electron microscopic investigation on the fibril formation from silk fibers

Abstract

On the fibril formation in the solving process of Saturniidae group fibroins through the treatment of dilute acid and alkaline solutions, differences of the fibril between Saturniidae group and Bombyx mori were compared by means of electron microscope. (1) Though there are some differences which are seen through the species of Saturniidae group, Saturniidae group fibroins obtained by the usual scouring method consist of fibrils of comparatively uniform stripes. (2) As to Saturniidae group fibroins treated with dilute alkaline solution, the fibrils cause the phenomenon of complication, parting or meeting and collapse, and they irregularly branch or change to the state of whirlpools and disolation. (3) As to Saturniidae group fibroins treated with acid solution, many waves, ripples, branches and sheaves of withered tree-like in the direction of the principal axis of fibers or the inclination. (4) As to Saturniidae group fibroins, the fibril formation is pretty clearly observed and also the fine fibrils are continuously seen in comparison with Bombyx mori fibroin. This tendency becomes more remarkable in treatment of dilute acid. © 1969, The Japanese Society of Sericultural Science. All rights reserved.