Non-mulberry Silks: Diversity, Origins, and Production Techniques
摘要
Throughout history, humans have cherished silk for its intricate structure, versatility, and visual elegance. The most popular and widely used type of silk is mulberry silk, which comes from the Bombyx mori silkworm. Extensive studies have been conducted on B. mori silk fibroin, yet research on non-mulberry silk fibroin from Antheraea assama and Philosamia ricini remains insufficient. This chapter focuses on the varieties, origins, and manufacturing methods of non-mulberry silks. It elaborates on the various types of non-mulberry silks, highlighting their environmental and economic significance. The discussion encompasses various non-mulberry silk types produced by different silkworm species, including tasar, muga, and eri silks. The geographical origins of these silks are explored, emphasizing their cultural significance in countries such as China, Japan, and India. Additionally, the chapter provides a detailed description of the complex production techniques for non-mulberry silks, encompassing aspects from silkworm cultivation to fiber extraction and refinement. Each non-mulberry silk type is examined for its unique characteristics, including physical properties, color range, and potential applications. The chapter concludes by examining both the promises and complexities of producing non-mulberry silk, with a focus on conserving traditional sericulture practices.