USE OF A STRUCTURAL POLYPEPTIDE FOR TREATING OR FINISHING TEXTILES

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use of a structural polypeptide for treating or finishing textiles. Specifically, said treating or finishing includes improving or maintaining the properties of textiles such as their optics or introducing properties to textiles. Said treating or finishing also includes restoring textiles.

Claims

1. A method of using a silk polypeptide for treating or finishing textiles.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein treating or finishing textiles includes improving or maintaining the optics of textiles, and wherein improving or maintaining the optics of textiles encompasses (i) reducing the graying of textiles, (ii) improving the whiteness of textiles, (iii) reducing the discoloration or fading of textiles, (iv) preventing the change in colour impression of textiles, (v) improving the gloss impression or shining of textiles, (vi) improving the luminosity of textiles, (vii) improving the soil removal of textiles, (viii) preventing resoiling of textiles, and/or (ix) reducing the shrinkage of textiles.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein treating or finishing textiles includes improving or maintaining the properties of textiles or introducing properties to textiles, and wherein improving or maintaining the properties of textiles or introducing properties to textiles encompasses (i) preventing the loss of tensile strength of textiles, (ii) preventing the loss of elasticity of textiles, (iii) improving the shape retention of textiles, (iv) reducing the shrinkage of textiles, (v) improving the mechanical resistance of textiles, (vi) reducing wrinkling/increasing the wrinkling resistance of textiles, (vii) facilitating ironing of textiles, (viii) improving the haptics, preferably smoothness, of textiles, (ix) improving the water vapour permeability of textiles, (x) improving the wettability of textiles, (xi) introducing UV ray blocking to textiles, (xii) improving the breathability of textiles, and/or (xiii) improving the abrasion resistance of textiles.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein treating or finishing textiles includes restoring textiles, and wherein restoring textiles encompasses (i) smoothing of textiles, (ii) dissolving fluffs and nodules in textiles, (iii) reducing pilling of textiles, (iv) reducing fluffing of textiles, and/or (v) filling cavities within the fibers of textiles.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein treating or finishing textiles includes improving the microbiological properties of textiles, and wherein improving the microbiological properties of textiles encompasses (i) preventing bad odour of textiles, (ii) blocking bad odour of textiles, and/or (iii) preventing or inhibiting microbial growth in textiles.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein treating or finishing textiles includes improving the olfactory properties of textiles, and wherein improving the olfactory properties of textiles encompasses (i) improving the perfume impression of textiles, and/or (ii) controlling release of perfumes from textiles.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the silk polypeptide is comprised in an aqueous formulation.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the concentration of the silk polypeptide in the aqueous formulation is in the range of 0.01% by weight to 20% by weight.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the aqueous formulation has a gel-like structure.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the gel-like structure is a hydrogel.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the silk polypeptide comprises or consists of (at least two identical) repetitive units, and wherein the repetitive units are independently selected from the group consisting of module C having an amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1 or variants thereof, module C.sup.Cys having an amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 2 or variants thereof, module C.sup.K having an amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 3 or variants thereof, and module C.sup.Lys having an amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 4 or variants thereof.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the silk polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of (C).sub.m, (C).sub.mC.sup.Cys, (C).sub.mC.sup.K, (C).sub.mC.sup.Lys, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.m, C.sup.K(C).sub.m, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.m, (C.sup.Cys).sub.m, (C.sup.K).sub.m, and (C.sup.Lys).sub.m, wherein m is an integer of 2 to 96, and wherein the silk polypeptide is selected from the group consisting of C.sub.2, C.sub.4, C.sub.6, C.sub.8, C.sub.16, C.sub.32, C.sub.48, (C).sub.2C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.4C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.6C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.8C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.16C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.32C.sup.Cys, (C).sub.48C.sup.Cys (C).sub.2C.sup.K, (C).sub.4C.sup.K, (C).sub.6C.sup.K, (C).sub.8C.sup.K, (C).sub.16C.sup.K, (C).sub.32C.sup.K, (C).sub.48C.sup.K, (C).sub.2C.sup.Lys, (C).sub.4C.sup.Lys, (C).sub.6C.sup.Lys (C).sub.8C.sup.Lys, (C).sub.16C.sup.Lys (C).sub.32C.sup.Lys (C).sub.48C.sup.Lys C.sup.Cys(C).sub.2, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.4, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.6, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.8, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.16, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.32, C.sup.Cys(C).sub.48, C.sup.K(C).sub.2, C.sup.K(C).sub.4, C.sup.K(C).sub.6, C.sup.K(C).sub.8, C.sup.K(C).sub.16, C.sup.K(C).sub.32, C.sup.K(C).sub.48, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.2, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.4, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.6, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.8, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.16, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.32, C.sup.Lys(C).sub.48, C.sup.Cys.sub.2, C.sup.Cys.sub.4, C.sup.Cys.sub.6, C.sup.Cys.sub.8, C.sup.Cys.sub.16, C.sup.Cys.sub.32, C.sup.Cys.sub.48, C.sup.K.sub.2, C.sup.K.sub.4, C.sup.K.sub.6, C.sup.K.sub.8, C.sup.K.sub.16, C.sup.K.sub.32, C.sup.K.sub.48, C.sup.Lys.sub.2, C.sup.Lys.sub.4, C.sup.Lys.sub.6, C.sup.Lys.sub.8, C.sup.Lys.sub.16, C.sup.Lys.sub.32, and C.sup.Lys.sub.48.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the textiles are selected from the group consisting of woven, non-woven or knitted textiles, and wherein the textiles are animal derived textiles, plant derived textiles, synthetic textiles, or blends thereof.

14. A textile treated or finished with a silk polypeptide.

15. The textile of claim 14, wherein the textile is treated or finished with a silk polypeptide hydrogel.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein said method comprises the steps of: (i) diluting a dose of an aqueous formulation comprising a silk polypeptide with an aqueous solution to obtain a treating solution, and (ii) applying the treating solution so formed to the textiles.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the treating solution is applied by bathing the textiles in the treating solution, spraying the treating solution onto the textiles, nebulizing the treating solution onto the textiles, and/or dipping the textiles in the treating solution.

18. The method of claim 8, wherein the concentration of the silk polypeptide in the aqueous formulation is in the range of 0.1% by weight to 15% by weight.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the concentration of the silk polypeptide in the aqueous formulation is in the range of 1% by weight to 10% by weight.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein the animal derived textiles are selected from the group consisting of wool and silk textiles, the plant derived textiles are selected from the group consisting of cotton, flax, rayon, and seaweed textiles, or the synthetic textiles are selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, and spandex textiles.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0299] The following figures are merely illustrative of the present invention and should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention as indicated by the appended claims in any way.

[0300] FIGS. 1A-1B: Pictures of the apparatus for finishing of fibers during finishing of cotton fiber.

[0301] Left: Uptake-Reel (UR), Feed-Reel (FR), Immersion-Tank 1 (IT1), Coating-Roll 1 (CR1), Switching-Shaft 1(SS1) and Switching-Roll 1. Right: Switching-Roll 2 (SR2), Immersion Tank 2 (IT2), Coating-Roll 2 (CR2), Switching-Shaft 2 (SS2) and Switching-Roll 3 (SR3).

[0302] FIG. 2: Weaving frame for production of textile fabrics.

[0303] FIGS. 3A-3B: LSM (laser scanning microscope) pictures of non-treated (left) and treated wool fiber (right). The treatment of the wool fiber with silk leads to the covering of cuticles. The smoother surface changes the reflection of light from diffuse to more specular. Consequently, the treated textiles show an improvement in gloss impression and appear more shining.

[0304] FIGS. 4A-4B: LSM pictures of non-treated (left) and treated nylon fibers (right). The treatment of the nylon fiber with silk leads to a smoother surface. The smoother surface changes the reflection of light from diffuse to more specular. Consequently, the treated textiles show an improvement in gloss impression and appear more shining.

[0305] FIGS. 5A-5B: LSM pictures of non-treated (left) and treated wool fiber (right). The treatment of the fiber with silk leads to the covering of cuticles. The smoother surface leads to increased softness and reduced scratchiness.

[0306] FIGS. 6A-6B: LSM pictures of non-treated (left) and treated nylon fibers (right). The treatment of the fiber with silk leads to a smoother surface increasing the smoothness of the textiles and leading to softer touch.

[0307] FIGS. 7A-7B: LSM pictures of non-treated (left) and treated nylon fibers (right). The treatment of the fiber with silk leads to a smoother surface increasing the smoothness of the textiles and leading to softer touch. In addition, the silk coverage is able to reduce pilling and fluffing of textiles.

[0308] FIGS. 8A-8B: LSM pictures of non-treated (left) and treated wool fiber (right). The treatment of the fiber with silk leads to the covering of cuticles and consequently to increased smoothness, softer touch and less scratchy textiles. In addition, silk is able to reduce pilling and fluffing of textiles.

[0309] FIGS. 9A-9B: Adhesion of silk capsules with perfume oil to cotton thread (left). Silk capsules on cotton thread after drying (right).

[0310] FIGS. 10A-10B: Results of in vitro-tests. Samples were applied onto sterile culture plates and incubated for 3 days. High microbial load could be observed on plates with polyester samples (A), whereas no microbial growth could be observed on plates with silk polypeptide (C16) samples (B).

EXAMPLES

[0311] The examples given below are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the invention described above in any way.

Example 1: Preparation of C.SUB.16 .Silk Hydrogels

a) Preparation of C.SUB.16 .Protein:

[0312] The C.sub.16 protein (SEQ ID NO: 6) was prepared as described in WO 2006/008163.

b) Preparation of Protein Solutions:

[0313] For the preparation of protein solutions, the protein was dissolved in 6 M GdmSCN and 50 mM Tris/HCl, pH 8.0. In order to remove the GdmSCN, protein solutions were dialyzed against 10 mM Tris/HCl, pH 9.0 using a Spectra/Por Dialysis Membrane with a MWCO of 6000-8000. The solution was centrifuged at 2,860g for 10 min at room temperature.

[0314] At a volume of the protein solution of >500 mL, the GdmSCN was removed and the protein solution was concentrated without dialysis using a crossflow unit (Sartorius AG, Gottingen) with SARTOCON Slice Cassettes (Filter material: Hydrosat with 10 kDa cut off).

[0315] The C.sub.16 protein concentration was determined by measuring the absorbance at 276 nm using the UV/Vis spectroscopy (Beckman Coulter). The final protein concentration in protein solution was between 0.5 and 9% (w/w) according to the respective application.

c) Preparation of Protein Hydrogels:

[0316] For the preparation of protein solutions, the protein was dissolved in 6 M GdmSCN and 50 mM Tris/HCl, pH 8.0. In order to remove the GdmSCN, protein solutions were dialyzed against 10 mM Tris/HCl, pH 9.0 using a Spectra/Por Dialysis Membrane with a MWCO of 6000-8000. The solution was centrifuged at 2,860g for 10 min at room temperature.

[0317] At a volume of the protein solution of >500 mL, the GdmSCN was removed and the protein solution was concentrated without dialysis using a crossflow unit (Sartorius AG, Gottingen) with SARTOCON Slice Cassettes (Filter material: Hydrosat with 10 kDa cut off).

[0318] The C.sub.16 protein concentration was determined by measuring the absorbance at 276 nm using the UV/Vis spectroscopy (Beckman Coulter). The final protein concentration in protein solution was between 0.5 and 9% (w/w) according to the respective application. Either the protein solutions were autoclaved at 121 C. for 15 min or SymDiol (Symrise, Holzminden, Germany) was added to a final concentration of 1% to avoid microbial growth during subsequent storage. The samples were stored for 1 hour to 36 months at temperatures of 4 C. to 30 C. for maturation to form hydrogel structures.

Example 2: Treatment and Finishing of Fibers and Textiles

a) Treatment and Finishing of Fibers Via Bathing:

[0319] The treatment and finishing of fibers (wool, cotton, nylon, polyester) were performed with a constructed apparatus (see FIG. 1). The fibers were dragged twice through two immersion tanks filled with 15 mL of protein solution respectively (protein concentration 1 and 2% w/w). Drying was either performed at room temperature (20-30 C.) or in a convection oven with a first drying step at 60-110 C. for 30-1200 s at 400-1200 rpm and a second drying step at 130-180 C. for 30-300 s at 400-1200 rpm. After drying, the fibers were dragged again twice through washing water or a post treatment solution (500 mM potassium phosphate pH 8.0) and subsequent washing step with washing water. The dragging speed was set to 2-12 m/min. Drying was either performed at room temperature (20-30 C.) or in a convection oven with a first drying step at 60-110 C. for 30-1200 s at 400-1200 rpm and a second drying step at 130-180 C. for 30-300 s at 400-1200 rpm.

b) Treatment and Finishing of Textiles Via Dipping:

[0320] The fibers and textiles were immersed into protein solution in a beaker with 50 mL protein solution (protein concentration 2% w/w), removed and subsequently dried at room temperature (20-30 C.).

c) Treatment and Finishing of Textiles Via Spraying:

[0321] The protein solution (protein concentration 1-2% w/w) was transferred to a spray can or spraying device (Bottle ELLIPS 50 ml Nr. 00041, Hartwig Krger GmbH with a spraying device Zerstuberpumpe 00355+00352, Hartwig Krger GmbH). The protein solution was sprayed on textiles till full saturation. The fabrics were dried at room temperature (20-30 C.).

d) Preparation of Textile Fabrics with Treated and Finished Fibers:

[0322] The textile fabrics were woven with a modified weaving frame (see FIG. 2). The size of the textile fabrics was defined to 45 cm.sup.2.

Example 3: Improving or Maintaining the Optics of Different Textiles

a) Improving or Maintaining the Optics of Cotton Fibers (Improvement of Gloss Impression and Shining of Textiles):

[0323] Cotton fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 1.2% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. Due to the very good wettability of cottonbecause of the structured surface of cotton monofilaments and the arrangement of cotton monofilaments in fibersthe silk protein solution could be applied very well to cotton textiles. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general optics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the gloss impression and shining of textiles. 10 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better optics (improvement of gloss impression and shining of textiles). 0 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better optics. 5 of the people abstained from voting.

b) Improving or Maintaining the Optics of Wool Fibers (Improvement of Gloss Impression and Shining of Textiles):

[0324] Wool fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 10.5% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. Wool showed a very good wettability, because of the structured surface of wool monofilaments and the arrangement of monofilaments in the fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general optics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the gloss impression and shining of textiles. 6 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better optics. 2 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better optics. 8 of the people abstained from voting. In particular the cuticles of the fiber were covered by silk leading to an improvement in gloss impression and a more shining textile (see FIG. 3).

c) Improving or Maintaining the Optics of Nylon Fibers (Improvement of Gloss Impression and Shining of Textiles):

[0325] Colored nylon fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 5.0% (w/w). The colored nylon single yarn showed a very good wettability, because of the structured surface of the monofilaments. Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general optics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the gloss impression and shining of textiles. 8 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better optics. 0 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better optics. 7 of the people abstained from voting. The reason for the improved optics is most likely the smoothened surfaced of the nylon fiber after treatment (see FIG. 4). In particular the treated textiles were rated to have an improved gloss impression and to be more shining.

d) Improving or Maintaining the Optics of Polyester Fibers (Improvement of Gloss Impression and Shining of Textiles):

[0326] Colored polyester fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The colored polyester single yarn showed a good wettability. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 3.4% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general optics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the gloss impression and shining of textiles. 9 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better optics. 5 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better optics. 1 of the people abstained from voting. In particular the treated textiles were rated to have an improved gloss impression and to be more shining.

Example 4: Improving or Maintaining the Properties of Textiles or Introducing Properties to Different Textiles

a) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to Cotton (Improvement of Haptics, Elasticity, Wrinkling, Smoothness, Soft Touch and Scratchiness):

[0327] Cotton fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 1.2% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general haptics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the elasticity, wrinkling behavior, smoothness, soft touch and scratchiness. 11 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better haptics. 4 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better haptics. 0 of the people abstained from voting. In particular, the textiles were rated to show increased elasticity and had less tendency to wrinkle. The predominant portion of people mentioned the soft touch and smoothness of the textile leading to less scratchy feeling.

b) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to Wool (Improvement of Haptics, Elasticity, Wrinkling, Smoothness, Soft Touch and Scratchiness, Abrasion Resistance):

[0328] Wool fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 10.5% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general haptics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the elasticity, wrinkling behavior, smoothness, soft touch and scratchiness. 9 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better haptics. 5 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better haptics. 1 of the people abstained from voting. In particular, the softness of the treated textile was rated higher and the textile was rated to be less scratchy, which is most likely caused by covering the cuticles with silk (see FIG. 5). In addition, the treated textile showed a lower tendency to wrinkle and a higher elasticity.

c) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to Wool (Abrasion Resistance):

[0329] To verify the influence of silk treatment and finishing on the abrasion resistance, a Martindale abrasion test was performed according to DIN53863 with the wool fabrics. The referencenon-treated wool fabricreached 490 cycles whereas the silk treated fabric reached 860 cycles. Hence, the abrasion resistance could be increased by treatment and finishing of wool fabrics with silk solution.

d) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to Nylon (Improvement of Haptics, Elasticity, Wrinkling, Smoothness, Soft Touch and Scratchiness):

[0330] Nylon fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 5.0% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general haptics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the elasticity, wrinkling behavior, smoothness, soft touch and scratchiness. 11 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better haptics. 0 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better haptics. 4 of the people abstained from voting. In particular the softness of the treated textiles was rated, which is most likely caused by smoothening the surface of nylon fibers by the treatment (see FIG. 6). In addition, the treated textile showed a lower tendency to wrinkle.

e) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to a Nylon Fabric (Abrasion Resistance):

[0331] To verify the influence of silk treatment and finishing on the abrasion resistance, a Martindale abrasion test was performed according to DIN53863 with the nylon fabrics. The referencenon-treated nylon fabricreached 2920 cycles whereas the silk treated fabric reached 3910 cycles. Hence, the abrasion resistance could be increased by treatment and finishing of wool fabrics with silk solution.

f) Improving or Maintaining the Properties or Introducing Properties to Polyester (Improvement of Haptics. Elasticity. Wrinkling. Smoothness, Soft Touch and Scratchiness):

[0332] Polyester fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The final protein amount on the fiber was determined to 3.4% (w/w). Textiles with a surface of 45 cm.sup.2 were woven according to example 2 d)one with non-treated fiber and one with treated fiber. The textiles were tested by a pool of 15 people. The criteria of the test were general haptics and the overall quality of the textiles and in particular the elasticity, wrinkling behavior, smoothness, soft touch and scratchiness. 11 of the people voted for the treated textile to have better haptics. 3 of the people voted for the non-treated textile to have better haptics. 1 of the people abstained from voting. In particular the softness of the treated textiles was rated, which is most likely caused by smoothening the surface of polyester fibers by the treatment. In addition, the treated textile showed a lower tendency to wrinkle.

Example 5: Restoring Textiles

[0333] Textiles suffer from reduced performance with regard to rough surface of textiles, building of fluffs and nodules and pilling of textiles after usage. The suitability of treatment of textiles with silk for restoring textiles was shown, as treatment with silk leads to smoothing the surface of textiles, reducing pilling and fluffing, nodule formation of textiles.

a) Restoring the Synthetic Polymer-Based Fibers:

[0334] Nylon fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The fibers were analyzed via microscopy before and after treatment.

[0335] It could be shown that silk is able to smoothen the surface of synthetic polymer-based fibers like nylon fibers leading to increased smoothness, softer touch and less scratchy textiles. In addition, the covering with silk reduces pilling and fluffing of the textiles (see FIG. 7).

b) Restoring Natural Fibers (Surface Restoration):

[0336] Wool fibers finished with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) were used. The fibers were analyzed via microscopy before and after treatment.

[0337] Silk is able to cover the cuticles of natural fibers like wool leading to leading to increased smoothness, softer touch and less scratchy textiles. In addition, the covering with silk reduces pilling and fluffing of the textiles (see FIG. 8).

c) Restoring Natural Fibers (Tensile Strength):

[0338] A treating solution was prepared by diluting 5 mL of C.sub.16 protein (single C module: SEQ ID NO: 1, C.sub.16 protein: SEQ ID NO: 6) aqueous solution (1% protein concentration) with 495 mL of deionized water in a beaker, leading to a final protein concentration of 0.01% in the treating solution. Deionized water was used as treating solution for reference samples. Wool fibers were dipped into the beakers with treating solution or water for 1-30 minutes under stirring with a magnetic stirrer. The wool fibers were then washed in 10 mL of deionized water in a beaker under constant stirring with a magnetic stirrer, leading to estimated final protein concentrations of 0.0001% to 0.001% of C.sub.16 protein in the washing solution. Subsequently, the wool fibers were dried at 20-30 C. for 1-8 h and used for testing of tensile strength.

[0339] The fibers were analyzed via tensile testing (Zwick BT1-FK0.5N.D14 from Zwick/Roell GmbH & Co. KG) to determine the breaking force according to DIN EN ISO 2062 at a pulling speed of 250 mm/min and an effective clamping length of 80 mm. The tensile strength was standardized to the diameter of the measured fiber (analyzed by LSM) before and after treatment. The mean tensile strength was calculated from 10 measurements each.

[0340] Some of the samples were additionally treated by ironing at 130-150 C. for 10 sec. The samples were analyzed after 20 cycles of ironing, treatment with water (sample 1) or treatment with C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) according to example 2 a) (sample 2) and drying at 20-30 C. for 1-16 h.

[0341] The following samples were prepared and tested to analyze the restorative effect of silk on wool fibers:

TABLE-US-00001 Standardized Sample breaking force [%] Reference: Non-treated wool 100 22% fiber before ironing Sample 1: Water-treated wool after 58 14% 20 cycles of ironing, washing and drying Sample 2: Wool after ironing and treated 86 12% with C16 after ironing

[0342] In conclusion, the restorative effect of silk with regard to retaining tensile strength was shown, as the treatment with C16 solution after each ironing cycle lead to an increase in standardized breaking force of wool fibers after 20 ironing cycles of 28% compared to samples which were only treated with water.

Example 6: Improving the Microbiological Properties of Textiles

a) Improving Microbial Properties of Textiles Using Silk Fibers:

[0343] Textile samples of C.sub.48C.sup.Cys silk protein fibers were cut into 1515 mm pieces (20 pieces). Commercially available polyester textile was used as control and cut into 1515 mm pieces. The analysis was carried out according to a modified procedure of ISO 22196. Within this setup, a thin film of bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis DSM 18857) solution (1.25104/cm.sup.2) was given directly onto each sample. A foil (Stomacher-Bags) was applied to each well, to prevent dehydration. For blank sample, bacteria were removed using ultrasonic and vortex technique, immediately after inoculation. Bacteria were counted (colony forming unitsCFU, t0-value). Another set was incubated in wet conditions for 24 hours at 37 C. Bacteria estimation was carried out like described before (t24-value).

[0344] The silk protein fiber textile showed a reduction of bacterial adhesion of >99.99% which equals a log reduction of >4 in comparison to non-treated polyester textile. The reduction of bacterial adhesion is shown in FIG. 10.

[0345] Hence, the suitability of silk material to improve microbial properties of textiles, i.e. reducing adhesion of film forming microorganisms was shown.

b) Improving Microbial Properties of Textiles by Treating and Finishing of Materials:

[0346] Silicon foil was used as model material for synthetic polymer-based fibers. The material was cut into 1515 mm pieces. The samples were stored into a Falcon tube. Samples were autoclaved in 50 mL Falcon tubes covered with aluminum foil for 20 min at 121 C. Fabric pieces were placed in sterile petri plates and allowed to dry under sterile bench for 1-2 h. Half of the autoclaved samples were dipped into a falcon filled with 1% sterilized (20 min at 121 C.) C16 silk hydrogel for 5 minutesaccording to example 2 b). After dipping, samples were dried at room temperature under sterile conditions over night. The other half of the autoclaved samples served as control. These were dipped into a falcon filled with sterilized deionized water (20 min 121 C.) for 5 minutes. After dipping, samples were dried at room temperature under sterile conditions over night.

[0347] The analysis was carried out according to a modified procedure of ISO 22196. Within this setup, a thin film of bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis DSM 18857) solution (1.25104/cm.sup.2) was given directly onto each sample. A foil (Stomacher-Bags) was applied to each well, to prevent dehydration. For blank sample, bacteria were removed using ultrasonic and vortex technique, immediately after inoculation. Bacteria were counted (colony forming unitsCFU, t0-value).

[0348] Another set was incubated in wet conditions for 24 hours at 37 C. Bacteria estimation was carried out like described before (t24-value).

[0349] The treatment and finishing of the material with protein lead to a reduction of bacterial adhesion of 93.16% on silicone in comparison to the non-treated sample which equals a log reduction of 1.16.

[0350] These finding show the ability of silk treatment for reduction of bacterial adhesion on textiles and preventing or inhibiting microbial growth in textiles. Consequently, the treatment with silk was shown to be able to potentially prevent bad odor and blocking bad odor of textiles caused by microbial growth in textiles.

Example 7: Improving the Olfactory Properties of Textiles

[0351] A concept for treating textiles with a silk solution containing fragrances was developed.

a) Preparation of Silk Solution from C.sub.16 (SEQ ID NO: 6) with Perfume Oil:

[0352] Silk hydrogel with 3% C.sub.16 silk protein was produced according to example 2c). The hydrogel was treated with an ultra turrax (12,000 rpm, 1 min) until the hydrogel got flowable. Subsequently, 1 mL of perfume oil was added to 49 mL of the flowable hydrogel. The mixture was again treated with an ultra turrax (12,000 rpm, 1 min). The result was a flowable silk hydrogel with perfume oil.

b) Preparation of Silk Solution from C.sub.16.sup.K with Perfume Oil:

[0353] Silk hydrogel with 3% C.sub.16.sup.K silk protein was produced according to example 2c). The hydrogel was treated with an ultra turrax (12,000 rpm, 1 min) until the hydrogel got flowable. Subsequently, 1 mL of perfume oil was added to 49 mL of the flowable hydrogel. The mixture was again treated with an ultra turrax (12,000 rpm, 1 min). The result was a flowable silk hydrogel with perfume oil.

c) Treatment of Cotton Thread with Silk Solution from C.sub.16.sup.K with Perfume Oil:

[0354] 0.5 g of silk solution was suspended in 44.5 g of deionized water and 5 g of cationic polymers (Polyquatemium-7 (Lubrizol Advanced Materials Inc., 9911 Brecksville Road, Cleveland, Ohio)). The cationic polymers were selected from the group of polyquaterniums, which are organic chemicals. These polymers have quaternary ammonium centers in the polymer. They are positively charged and neutralize negative charges and are commonly used in hair or personal care. Their positive charge can ionically link them to materials, like hair or skin.

[0355] The mixture was shaken. 20 L of the suspension was put on a glass slide. A single cotton thread was dipped in the drop of the described suspension of silk solution, water and polymers. As reference 20 L of a suspension containing only perfume oil, deionized water and cationic polymers was used. The threads were dipped into a drop of 20 L of the reference solution. An adhesion of the silk on the cotton thread could be observed (see FIG. 9A) The silk films were stable after drying at room temperature. The perfume oil was fixed in the silk film, which forms a diffusion barrier leading to slower release of the fragrances. These findings show that treatment with silk is suitable to fix perfumes with fragrances to textiles leading to an improved perfume impression of textiles and a controlled long-term release of perfumes from textiles.

[0356] In particular, the perfume impression of samples with silk directly after treatment was rated to be better compared to the reference, as the initial smell was reduced and rated to be more compelling. In addition, the perfume smell was shown to be longer lasting because of the controlled release effect compared to the reference.

d) Treatment of Wool, Polyester and Nylon Threads with Silk Solution from C.sub.16 with Perfume Oil:

[0357] 0.5 g of silk solution was suspended in 44.5 g of deionized water and 5 g of cationic polymers (Polyquatemium-7 (Lubrizol Advanced Materials Inc., 9911 Brecksville Road, Cleveland, Ohio)). The cationic polymers were selected from the group of polyquaterniums, which are organic chemicals. These polymers have quaternary ammonium centers in the polymer. They are positively charged and neutralize negative charges and are commonly used in hair or personal care. Their positive charge can ionically link them to materials, like hair or skin.

[0358] The mixture was shaken. 20 L of the suspension was put on a glass slide. Single wool, polyester and nylon threads were dipped in the drop of the described suspension of silk solution, water and polymers. As reference 20 L of a suspension containing only perfume oil, deionized water and cationic polymers was used. The threads were dipped into a drop of 20 L of the reference solution. An adhesion of the silk on the threads could be observed (see FIG. 9A, B). The silk films were stable after drying at room temperature. The perfume oil was fixed in the silk film, which forms a diffusion barrier leading to slower release of the fragrances. These findings show that treatment with silk is suitable to fix perfumes with fragrances to textiles leading to an improved perfume impression of textiles and a controlled long-term release of perfumes from textiles.

[0359] In particular, the perfume impression of samples with silk directly after treatment was rated to be better compared to the reference, as the initial smell was reduced and rated to be more compelling. In addition, the perfume smell was shown to be longer lasting because of the controlled release effect compared to the reference.