FUNCTIONAL CLOTHING AND PRODUCTS MADE OF SILK AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THEM

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] In some embodiments, the invention relates to silk-coated performance apparel and products for use in home and automotive applications, such as fabrics or leather coated with pure silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments thereof.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Silk is a natural polymer produced by a variety of insects and spiders, and comprises a filament core protein, silk fibroin, and a glue-like coating consisting of a non-filamentous protein, sericin. Silk fibers are light weight, breathable, and hypoallergenic. Silk is comfortable when worn next to the skin and insulates very well; keeping the wearer warm in cold temperatures and is cooler than many other fabrics in warm temperatures.

[0003] WO 2011 / 069643 A2 describes a method for coating an inert or naturally occurring material with a silk polypeptide, and products thereof.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The subject-matter of the present invention is defined by the attached claims. Anything described as "embodiment" in the following which is not encompassed by the wording of the claims is considered to be outside of the claimed invention.

[0005] The present invention pertains to an article comprising a fiber, a yarn, a textile, or leather, and a coating, wherein the coating comprises: silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof having an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, and a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 to about 3.0, wherein the molecular weight is determined following complete dissolution of the silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof using a High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method.

[0006] The present invention also pertains to a method of coating a material with a composition comprising silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof, the method comprising: coating a surface of the material with a solution of silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof having an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, and a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 to about 3.0; and drying the surface of the material that has been coated with the silk fibroin solution to provide the silk fibroin coated material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The invention will be further explained with reference to the attached drawings. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present invention. Fig. 1 is a flow chart showing various methods for producing pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments (SPFs). Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing various parameters that can be modified during the process of producing SPFs during the extraction and the dissolution steps. Fig. 3 is a photograph showing dry extracted silk fibroin. Fig. 4 is a photograph showing a SPF in the form of a solution. Figs. 5A-5D are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature lithium bromide (LiBr) solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 6A-6D are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 7A-7D are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 8 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 8A-8D are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 12 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 9A-9D are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 24 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 10A-10C are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 168 / 192 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 11A-11C are photographs showing dissolved silk in room temperature LiBr solutions dissolved in 60°C oven for 1, 4, and 6 hours, where sericin extraction was completed at 100°C for 60 min. Figs. 12A-12D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 60°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 13A-13D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 60°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 14A-14D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 60°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 15A-15D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 16A-16D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 17A-17D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 18A-18D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 19A-19D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 20A-20D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 21A-21D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied time). Figs. 22A-22D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 23A-23D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 60°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 24A-24D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 80°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 25A-25D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 80°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 26A-26D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 80°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 80°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 27A-27D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 100°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 28A-28D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 100°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 29A-29D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 100°C LiBr solutions dissolved in a 100°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 30A-30D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 120°C oven for 1 hour (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Figs. 31A-31D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 120°C oven for 4 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Fig. 32A-32D are photographs showing dissolved silk in 140°C (boiling point for LiBr) LiBr solutions dissolved in a 120°C oven for 6 hours (sericin extraction temperature and time were varied). Fig. 33 shows HPLC chromatograms from samples comprising vitamin C. Fig. 33 shows peaks from (1) a chemically stabilized sample of vitamin C at ambient conditions and (2) a sample of vitamin C taken after 1 hour at ambient conditions without chemical stabilization to prevent oxidation, where degradation products are visible. Fig. 34 is a table summarizing the LiBr and Sodium Carbonate (Na 2 CO 3 ) concentration in silk protein solutions of the present disclosure. Fig. 35 is a table summarizing the LiBr and Na 2 CO 3 concentration in silk protein solutions of the present disclosure. Fig. 36 is a table summarizing the stability of vitamin C in chemically stabilized solutions. Fig. 37 is a table summarizing the Molecular Weights of silk protein solutions of the present disclosure. Figs. 38A and 38B are graphs representing the effect of extraction volume on % mass loss. Fig. 39 is a table summarizing the Molecular Weights of silk dissolved from different concentrations of LiBr and from different extraction and dissolution sizes. Fig. 40 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 100°C LiBr and 100°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 41 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, boiling LiBr and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 42 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 60°C LiBr and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 43 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 80°C LiBr and 80°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 44 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 80°C LiBr and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 45 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 100°C LiBr and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 46 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Time on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 140°C LiBr and 140°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 47 is a graph summarizing the effect of Extraction Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 60 minute Extraction Time, 100°C LiBr and 100°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 48 is a graph summarizing the effect of LiBr Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 60 minute Extraction Time, 100°C Extraction Temperature and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 49 is a graph summarizing the effect of LiBr Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 30 minute Extraction Time, 100°C Extraction Temperature and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 50 is a graph summarizing the effect of Oven / Dissolution Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 30 minute Extraction Time, and 100°C Lithium Bromide (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 51 is a graph summarizing the effect of Oven / Dissolution Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 60 minute Extraction Time, and 100°C Lithium Bromide. (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 52 is a graph summarizing the effect of Oven / Dissolution Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 60 minute Extraction Time, and 140°C Lithium Bromide (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 53 is a graph summarizing the effect of Oven / Dissolution Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 30 minute Extraction Time, and 140°C Lithium Bromide (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 54 is a graph summarizing the effect of Oven / Dissolution Temperature on Molecular Weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 60 minute Extraction Time, and 80°C Lithium Bromide (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied). Fig. 55 is a graph summarizing the Molecular Weights of silk processed under varying conditions including Extraction Time, Extraction Temperature, Lithium Bromide (LiBr) Temperature, Oven Temperature for Dissolution, Oven Time for Dissolution. Fig. 56 is a graph summarizing the Molecular Weights of silk processed under conditions in which Oven / Dissolution Temperature is equal to LiBr Temperature. Fig. 57A is a graph illustrating wetting time with spray coating. Fig. 57B is a graph illustrating wetting time with stencil coating. Fig. 57C is a graph illustrating wetting time with bath coating. Fig. 57D is a graph illustrating wetting time with screen coating. Fig. 58A is a graph illustrating absorption time with spray coating. Fig. 58B is a graph illustrating absorption time with stencil coating. Fig. 58C is a graph illustrating absorption time with bath coating. Fig. 58D is a graph illustrating absorption time with screen coating. Fig. 59A is a graph illustrating spreading speed with spray coating. Fig. 59B is a graph illustrating spreading speed with stencil coating. Fig. 59C is a graph illustrating spreading speed with bath coating. Fig. 59D is a graph illustrating spreading speed with screen coating. Fig. 60A is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with spray coating. Fig. 60B is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with stencil coating. Fig. 60C is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with bath coating. Fig. 60D is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with screen coating. Fig. 61A is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with spray coating. Fig. 61B is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with stencil coating. Fig. 61C is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with bath coating. Fig. 61D is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with screen coating. Fig. 62A is a graph illustrating wetting time top. Fig. 62B is a graph illustrating wetting time bottom. Fig. 63A is a graph illustrating top absorption rate. Fig. 63B is a graph illustrating bottom absorption rate. Fig. 64A is a graph illustrating top max wetted radius. Fig. 64B is a graph illustrating bottom max wetted radius. Fig. 65A is a graph illustrating top spreading speed. Fig. 65B is a graph illustrating bottom spreading speed. Fig. 66A is a graph illustrating accumulative one-way transport index. Fig. 66B is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability. Fig. 67A is a graph illustrating wetting time of non-wicking finished. Fig. 67B is a graph illustrating wetting time of semi-finished before final setting. Fig. 68A is a graph illustrating absorption time of non-wicking finished. Fig. 68B is a graph illustrating absorption time of semi-finished before final setting. Fig. 69A is a graph illustrating spreading speed of non-wicking finished. Fig. 69B is a graph illustrating spreading speed of semi-finished before final setting. Fig. 70A is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index of non-wicking finished. Fig. 70B is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index of semi-finished before final setting. Fig. 71A is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability of non-wicking finished. Fig. 71B is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability of semi-finished before final setting. Fig. 72A is a graph illustrating wetting time with spray coating. Fig. 72B is a graph illustrating wetting time with stencil coating. Fig. 72C is a graph illustrating wetting time with bath coating. Fig. 73A is a graph illustrating absorption time with spray coating. Fig. 73B is a graph illustrating absorption time with stencil coating. Fig. 73C is a graph illustrating absorption time with bath coating. Fig. 74A is a graph illustrating spreading speed with spray coating. Fig. 74B is a graph illustrating spreading speed with stencil coating. Fig. 74C is a graph illustrating spreading speed with bath coating. Fig. 75A is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with spray coating. Fig. 75B is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with stencil coating. Fig. 75C is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with bath coating. Fig. 76A is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with spray coating. Fig. 76B is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with stencil coating. Fig. 76C is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with bath coating. Fig. 77A is a graph illustrating wetting time with 1% SFS. Fig. 77B is a graph illustrating wetting time with 0.1% SFS. Fig. 78A is a graph illustrating absorption time with 1% SFS. Fig. 78B is a graph illustrating absorption time with 0.1% SFS. Fig. 79A is a graph illustrating spreading speed with 1% SFS. Fig. 79B is a graph illustrating spreading speed with 0.1% SFS. Fig. 80A is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with 1% SFS. Fig. 80B is a graph illustrating accumulative one way transport index with 0.1% SFS. Fig. 81A is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with 1% SFS. Fig. 81B is a graph illustrating overall moisture management capability with 0.1% SFS. Fig. 82A is a graph illustrating summary of wetting time top. Fig. 82B is a graph illustrating summary of wetting time bottom. Fig. 83A is a graph illustrating summary of top absorption rate. Fig. 83B is a graph illustrating summary of bottom absorption rate. Fig. 84A is a graph illustrating summary of top max wetted radius. Fig. 84B is a graph illustrating summary of bottom wetted radius. Fig. 85A is a graph illustrating summary of top spreading speed. Fig. 85B is a graph illustrating summary of bottom spreading speed. Fig. 86A is a graph illustrating summary of accumulative one-way transport index. Fig. 86B is a graph illustrating summary of overall moisture management capability. Fig. 87 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 88 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 89 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 90 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 91 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 92 illustrates bacterial growth results. Fig. 93 illustrates accumulative one-way transport index versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 94 illustrates overall moisture management capability (OMMC) versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 95 illustrates wetting time at the top of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 96 illustrates wetting time at the bottom of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 97 illustrates absorption rate at the top of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 98 illustrates absorption rate at the bottom of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 99 illustrates spreading speed at the top of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 100 illustrates spreading speed at the bottom of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 101 illustrates wetted radius at the top of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 102 illustrates wetted radius at the bottom of the fabric versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 103 illustrates percent reduction in growth of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 104 illustrates percent reduction in growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4354 versus fabric washing cycles. Fig. 105 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-BATH-B (first view). Fig. 106 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-BATH-B (second view). Fig. 107 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-BATH-B (third view). Fig. 108 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-BATH-B (fourth view). Fig. 109 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRA Y-B (first view). Fig. 110 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (second view). Fig. 111 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (third view). Fig. 112 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (fourth view). Fig. 113 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (fifth view). Fig. 114 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (sixth view). Fig. 115 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-B (seventh view). Fig. 116 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-C (first view). Fig. 117 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-C (second view). Fig. 118 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-C (third view). Fig. 119 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-C (fourth view). Fig. 120 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-SPRAY-C (fifth view). Fig. 121 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (first view). Fig. 122 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (second view). Fig. 123 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (third view). Fig. 124 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (fourth view). Fig. 125 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (fifth view). Fig. 126 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (sixth view). Fig. 127 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (seventh view). Fig. 128 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (eighth view). Fig. 129 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-01-STEN-C (ninth view). Fig. 130 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (first view). Fig. 131 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (second view). Fig. 132 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (third view). Fig. 133 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (fourth view). Fig. 134 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (fifth view). Fig. 135 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (sixth view). Fig. 136 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-B (seventh view). Fig. 137 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (first view). Fig. 138 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (second view). Fig. 139 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (third view). Fig. 140 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (fourth view). Fig. 141 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (fifth view). Fig. 142 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (sixth view). Fig. 143 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (seventh view). Fig. 144 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (eighth view). Fig. 145 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-BATH-C (ninth view). Fig. 146 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (first view). Fig. 147 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (second view). Fig. 148 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (third view). Fig. 149 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (fourth view). Fig. 150 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (fifth view). Fig. 151 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (sixth view). Fig. 152 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (seventh view). Fig. 153 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (eighth view). Fig. 154 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-B (ninth view). Fig. 155 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-SPRAY-C. Fig. 156 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (first view). Fig. 157 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (second view). Fig. 158 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (third view). Fig. 159 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (fourth view). Fig. 160 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (fifth view). Fig. 161 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (sixth view). Fig. 162 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (seventh view). Fig. 163 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of fabric sample FAB-10-STEN-B (eighth view). Fig. 164 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of a fabric control sample (first view). Fig. 165 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of a fabric control sample (second view). Fig. 166 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of a fabric control sample (third view). Fig. 167 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of a fabric control sample (fourth view). Fig. 168 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (first view). Fig. 169 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (second view). Fig. 170 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (third view). Fig. 171 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (fourth view). Fig. 172 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (fifth view). Fig. 173 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (sixth view). Fig. 174 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL (seventh view). Fig. 175 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (first view). Fig. 176 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (second view). Fig. 177 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (third view). Fig. 178 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (fourth view). Fig. 179 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (fifth view). Fig. 180 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (sixth view). Fig. 181 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (seventh view). Fig. 182 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL (eighth view). Fig. 183 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MYL (first view). Fig. 184 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MYL (second view). Fig. 185 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MYL (third view). Fig. 186 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MYL (fourth view). Fig. 187 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MYL (fifth view). Fig. 188 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section (first view). Fig. 189 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section (second view). Fig. 190 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section (third view). Fig. 191 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section (fourth view). Fig. 192 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL (first view). Fig. 193 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL (second view). Fig. 194 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL (third view). Fig. 195 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL (fourth view). Fig. 196 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL (fifth view). Fig. 197 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01-MYL (first view). Fig. 198 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01-MYL (second view). Fig. 199 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01-MYL (third view). Fig. 200 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01-MYL (fourth view). Fig. 201 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (first view). Fig. 202 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (second view). Fig. 203 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (third view). Fig. 204 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (fourth view). Fig. 205 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (fifth view). Fig. 206 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01-MYL (sixth view). Fig. 207 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (first view). Fig. 208 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (second view). Fig. 209 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (third view). Fig. 210 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (fourth view). Fig. 211 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (fifth view). Fig. 212 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (sixth view). Fig. 213 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL (seventh view). Fig. 214 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL (first view). Fig. 215 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL (second view). Fig. 216 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL (third view). Fig. 217 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL (fourth view). Fig. 218 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL (fifth view). Fig. 219 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-C-01MYL cross-section (first view). Fig. 220 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (first view). Fig. 221 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (second view). Fig. 222 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (third view). Fig. 223 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (fourth view). Fig. 224 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (fifth view). Fig. 225 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL (sixth view). Fig. 226 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (first view). Fig. 227 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (second view). Fig. 228 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (third view). Fig. 229 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (fourth view). Fig. 230 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (fifth view). Fig. 231 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-BATH-C-01-MYL (sixth view). Fig. 232 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Melinex Control (first view). Fig. 233 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Melinex Control (second view). Fig. 234 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Melinex Control (third view). Fig. 235 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Melinex Control (fourth view). Fig. 236 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Mylar Control (first view). Fig. 237 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Mylar Control (second view). Fig. 238 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Mylar Control (third view). Fig. 239 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Mylar Control (fourth view). Fig. 240 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample Mylar Control (fifth view). Fig. 241 shows results from optical profiling measurements on the Mylar Control sample taken at the top, location 1 (shiny side). Fig. 242 shows results from optical profiling measurements on the Mylar Control sample taken at the bottom, location 2 (more matte side). Fig. 243 shows results from optical profiling measurements on the Melinex Control sample taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 244 shows results from optical profiling measurements on the Melinex Control sample taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 245 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 246 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-SPRAY-B-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 247 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 248 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 249 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MEL taken the top, location 1. Fig. 250 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-007MEL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 251 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 252 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-SPRAY-C-01MYL taken at bottom, location 2 Fig. 253 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 254 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-STEN-B-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 255 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 256 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-STEN-C-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 257 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 258 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-B-01MYL taken at the bottom, Location 2. Fig. 259 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 260 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-B-007MEL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 261 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-C-01MYL taken at top, location 1. Fig. 262 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-10-BATH-C-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 263 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL taken at the top, location 1. Fig. 264 shows results from optical profiling measurements on sample FIL-01-BATH-B-01MYL taken at the bottom, location 2. Fig. 265 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section. Fig. 266 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section. Fig. 267 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-01-SPRAY-B-O1MYL cross-section. Fig. 268 illustrates a scanning electron microscopy image of film sample FIL-10-BATH-C-01MYL cross-section. Fig. 269 illustrates accumulative one-way transport index results for natural fibers. Fig. 270 illustrates overall moisture management capability for natural fibers. Fig. 271 illustrates flammability test results for a cotton interlock fabric with (16021103) and without (16021101) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 272 illustrates flammability test results for a cotton interlock fabric with (16021103) and without (16021101) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 273 illustrates flammability test results for a polyester double knit fabric with (16021104) and without (16021102) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 274 illustrates flammability test results for a polyester double knit fabric with (16021104) and without (16021102) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 275 illustrates abrasion test results for a cotton interlock fabric with (16021501) and without (16021101) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 276 illustrates abrasion test results for a polyester double knit fabric with (16021502) and without (16021102) coating with 1% silk fibroin solution. Fig. 277 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041301. Fig. 278 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041301. Fig. 279 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041301. Fig. 280 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041301. Fig. 281 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041301. Fig. 282 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041302. Fig. 283 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041302. Fig. 284 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041302. Fig. 285 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041302. Fig. 286 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041302. Fig. 287 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041303. Fig. 288 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041303. Fig. 289 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041303. Fig. 290 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041303. Fig. 291 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041303. Fig. 292 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041304. Fig. 293 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041304. Fig. 294 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041304. Fig. 295 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041304. Fig. 296 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041304. Fig. 297 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041305. Fig. 298 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041305. Fig. 299 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041305. Fig. 300 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041305. Fig. 301 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041305. Fig. 302 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041306. Fig. 303 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041306. Fig. 304 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041306. Fig. 305 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041306. Fig. 306 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16041306. Fig. 307 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040803. Fig. 308 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040803. Fig. 309 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040803. Fig. 310 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040803. Fig. 311 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040803. Fig. 312 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040808. Fig. 313 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040808. Fig. 314 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040808. Fig. 315 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040808. Fig. 316 illustrates a scanning electron microscope image of sample 16040808. Fig. 317 illustrates an exemplary padder roller. Fig. 318 illustrates an exemplary kiss roller. Fig. 319 illustrates the process of unrolling an exemplary fabric roller. Fig. 320 illustrates a square of sample fabric to be coated. Fig. 321 illustrates an exemplary stainless steel bath. Fig. 322 illustrates a padder unit having two rollers. Fig. 323 illustrates a curing frame without fabric provided thereon. Fig. 324 illustrates a curing frame with fabric provided thereon. Fig. 325 illustrates an exemplary curing oven. Fig. 326 illustrates a cooling rack with a curing frame and fabric provided thereon. Fig. 327 illustrates a table that provides testing results for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and overall moisture management capability (OMMC) for sample nos. 16040101, 16040102, 16040103, 16040104, 16040105, and 16040106. Fig. 328 illustrates testing results in grades for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16040101, 16040102, 16040103, 16040104, 16040105, and 16040106. Fig. 329 illustrates testing results for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16040801, 16040802, 16040803, 16040804, 16040805, 16040806, 16040807, and 16040808. Fig. 330 illustrates testing results in grades for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16040801, 16040802, 16040803, 16040804, 16040805, 16040806, 16040807, and 16040808. Fig. 331 illustrates testing results for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16041201, 16041202, 16041302, 16041303, 16041203, 16041204, 16041305, 16041306, 16041301, and 16041304. Fig. 332 illustrates testing results in grades for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16041201, 16041202, 16041302, 16041303, 16041203, 16041204, 16041305, 16041306, 16041301, and 16041304. Fig. 333 illustrates testing results for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16041301, 16041302, 16041303, 16041304, 16041305, 16041306, 16042001, 16040101, and 16040106. Fig. 334 illustrates testing results in grades for wetting time, absorption rate, wetted radius, spreading speed, accumulative one-way transport, and OMMC for 16041301, 16041302, 16041303, 16041304, 16041305, 16041306, 16042001, 16040101, and 16040106. Fig. 335 illustrates a map of Liquid Moisture Management Test results for various coated fabrics described herein. Fig. 336 illustrates drapability coefficient testing results for various SFS coated fabrics. Fig. 337 illustrates drapability coefficient testing results for an SFS coated fabric after mechanical and steam finishing. Fig. 338 illustrates the results of a solution depletion calculation during coating. Fig. 339 illustrates samples used in moisture management testing. Fig. 340 illustrates the results of moisture management testing. Fig. 341 illustrates samples used in moisture management testing. Fig. 342 illustrates the results of moisture management testing. Fig. 343 illustrates samples used in moisture management testing. Fig. 344 illustrates the results of moisture management testing. Fig. 345 illustrates samples used in antimicrobial testing. Fig. 346 illustrates the results of antimicrobial testing. Fig. 347 illustrates the results of a water drop test on polyester / lycra knitted fabric treated with Ultratex CSP. Fig. 348 illustrates the results of a water drop test on polyester / lycra knitted fabric treated with Ultratex SI. Fig. 349 represents a table that describes test variables for an antibacterial study. Fig. 350 represents a table that describes the study intervals for an antibacterial study. Fig. 351 represents a table that describes the additional fabric bacteria load after washing cycles for an antibacterial study. For example, after 1 washing cycle the additional fabric will receive 4×10 7< of bacteria load. Fig. 352A and 352B represent tables that describe parameters and results for an antibacterial study. Fig. 353 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for sample 16060901 after washing. Fig. 354 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for sample 16060902 after washing. Fig. 355 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for sample 16060903 after washing. Fig. 356 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for sample 16060904 after washing. Fig. 357 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for a control. Fig. 358 illustrates an image of bacterial colonies for a control. Figs. 359A to 359C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060901 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, before any wash cycles. Figs. 360A to 360C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060902 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, before any wash cycles. Figs. 361A to 361C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060903 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, before any wash cycles. Figs. 362A to 362C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060904 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, before any wash cycles. Figs. 363A to 363C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060901 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after one wash cycle. Figs. 364A to 364C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060902 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after one wash cycle. Figs. 365A to 365C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060903 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after one wash cycle. Figs. 366A to 366C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060904 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after one wash cycle. Figs. 367A to 367C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060901 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after ten wash cycles. Figs. 368A to 368C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060902 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after ten wash cycles. Figs. 369A to 369C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060903 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after ten wash cycles. Figs. 370A to 370C illustrate a microscopic image of coated fabric sample 16060904 at (A) 350X magnification, (B) 1050X magnification, and (C) 3500X magnification, after ten wash cycles. Fig. 371 provides a qualitative analysis of the bacterial was study by observing the % foreign matter coverage area observed in Figs. 359A-359C to Figs. 370A-370C. Fig. 372 illustrates the results of a water drop test on polyester / lycra knitted fabric treated with Ultratex CSP. Fig. 373 illustrates the results of a water drop test on polyester / lycra knitted fabric treated with Ultratex SI. Fig. 374 illustrates the results of a water drop test on polyester / lycra knitted fabric treated with RODI water or tap water. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONSilk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments and Solutions Thereof

[0008] Provided herein are methods for producing pure and highly scalable silk protein fragment (SPF) mixture solutions that may be used to coat at least a portion of textiles or may be formed into usable fibers for weaving into yarn. In some embodiments, SPF mixture solutions may also refer to silk fibroin solutions (SFS), and vice versa. The solutions are generated from raw pure intact silk protein material and processed in order to remove any sericin and achieve the desired weight average molecular weight (MW) and polydispersity of the fragment mixture. Select method parameters may be altered to achieve distinct final silk protein fragment characteristics depending upon the intended use. The resulting final fragment solution is pure silk protein fragments and water with PPM to non-detectable levels of process contaminants. The concentration, size and polydispersity of silk protein fragments in the solution may further be altered depending upon the desired use and performance requirements. In an embodiment, the pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments in the solution are substantially devoid of sericin, have an average weight average molecular weight ranging from about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, and have a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 and about 3.0. In an embodiment, the pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments in the solution are substantially devoid of sericin, have an average weight average molecular weight ranging from about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, and have a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 and about 3.0. In an embodiment, the pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments in the solution are substantially devoid of sericin, have an average weight average molecular weight ranging from about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, and have a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 and about 3.0. In an embodiment, the solutions may be used to generate articles, such as silk gels of varying gel and liquid consistencies by varying water content / concentration, or sold as a raw ingredient into the consumer market. As used herein, the term "silk solution" may refer to solutions of silk proteins, including solutions of silk fibroin-based protein fragments.

[0009] As used herein, "silk based proteins or fragments thereof' includes silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof. Natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof include spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof. Silkworm based proteins or fragments thereof may include Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof. The SPF mixture solutions described herein may include silk based proteins or fragments thereof. Moreover, SFS, as described herein, may be replaced with SPF mixture solutions.

[0010] As used herein, "low molecular weight" silk fibroin solutions may include those SFS solutions that include silk fibroin-based protein fragments having a molecular weight in a range of about 5 kDa to 20 kDa. In some embodiments, a target low molecular weight for certain silk fibroin-based protein fragments may be about 11 kDa.

[0011] As used herein, "medium molecular weight" silk fibroin solutions may include those SFS solutions that include silk-fibroin based protein fragments having a molecular weight in a range of about 20 kDa to about 55 kDa. In some embodiments, a target medium molecular weight for certain silk fibroin-based protein fragments may be about 40 kDa.

[0012] As used herein, "high molecular weight" silk fibroin solutions may include those SFS solutions that include silk-fibroin based protein fragments having a molecular weight that is in a range of about 55 kDa to about 150 kDa. In some embodiments, a target high molecular weight for certain silk fibroin-based protein fragments may be about 100 kDa to about 145 kDa.

[0013] As used herein, the terms "substantially sericin free" or "substantially devoid of sericin" refer to silk fibers in which a majority of the sericin protein has been removed. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 10.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 9.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 8.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 7.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 6.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 5.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.05% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.1% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 0.5% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 1.0% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 1.5% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 2.0% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having between about 2.5% (w / w) and about 4.0% (w / w) sericin. In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having a sericin content between about 0.01% (w / w) and about 0.1 % (w / w). In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having a sericin content below about 0.1 % (w / w). In an embodiment, silk fibroin that is substantially devoid of sericin refers to silk fibroin having a sericin content below about 0.05 % (w / w). In an embodiment, when a silk source is added to a boiling (100°C) aqueous solution of sodium carbonate for a treatment time of between about 30 minutes to about 60 minutes, a degumming loss of about 26 wt. % to about 31 wt.% is obtained.

[0014] As used herein, the term "substantially homogeneous" may refer to pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments that are distributed in a normal distribution about an identified molecular weight. As used herein, the term "substantially homogeneous" may refer to an even distribution of additive, for example vitamin C, throughout a composition of the present disclosure.

[0015] As used herein, the term "substantially free of inorganic residuals" means that the composition exhibits residuals of 0.1 % (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, substantially free of inorganic residuals refers to a composition that exhibits residuals of 0.05% (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, substantially free of inorganic residuals refers to a composition that exhibits residuals of 0.01% (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is between 0 ppm ("non-detectable" or "ND") and 1000 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is ND to about 500 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is ND to about 400 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is ND to about 300 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is ND to about 200 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is ND to about 100 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of inorganic residuals is between 10 ppm and 1000 ppm.

[0016] As used herein, the term "substantially free of organic residuals" means that the composition exhibits residuals of 0.1 % (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, substantially free of organic residuals refers to a composition that exhibits residuals of 0.05% (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, substantially free of organic residuals refers to a composition that exhibits residuals of 0.01% (w / w) or less. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is between 0 ppm ("non-detectable" or "ND") and 1000 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is ND to about 500 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is ND to about 400 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is ND to about 300 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is ND to about 200 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is ND to about 100 ppm. In an embodiment, the amount of organic residuals is between 10 ppm and 1000 ppm.

[0017] Compositions of the present disclosure are "biocompatible" or otherwise exhibit "biocompatibility" meaning that the compositions are compatible with living tissue or a living system by not being toxic, injurious, or physiologically reactive and not causing immunological rejection or an inflammatory response. Such biocompatibility can be evidenced by participants topically applying compositions of the present disclosure on their skin for an extended period of time. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 3 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 7 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 14 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 21 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 30 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is selected from the group consisting of about 1 month, about 2 months, about 3 months, about 4 months, about 5 months, about 6 months, about 7 months, about 8 months, about 9 months, about 10 months, about 11 months, about 12 months, and indefinitely. For example, in some embodiments, the coatings described herein are biocompatible coatings.

[0018] In some embodiments, compositions described herein, which may be biocompatible compositions (e.g., biocompatible coatings that include silk), may be evaluated and comply with International Standard ISO 10993-1, titled the "Biological evaluation of medical devices - Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk management process." In some embodiments, compositions described herein, which may be biocompatible compositions, may be evaluated under ISO 106993-1 for one or more of cytotoxicity, sensitization, hemocompatibility, pyrogenicity, implantation, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity, and degradation.

[0019] In some embodiments, compositions and articles described herein, and methods of preparing the same, include silk coated fabrics and textiles wherein the silk coating is partially dissolved in the fabric or textile. The fabric or textile may be a polymeric material such as those described elsewhere herein. The term "partially dissolved" includes mixing to form a dispersion of, e.g., a portion of a polymeric fabric or textile with a portion of the silk based coating. In some embodiments, the dispersion may be a solid suspension (i.e., a dispersion comprising domains on the order of 10 nm) or a solid solution (i.e., a molecular dispersion) of silk in the polymeric fabric or textile. In some embodiments, the dispersion may be localized at the surface interface between the silk coating and the polymeric fabric or textile, and may have a depth of 1 nm, 2 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 25 nm, 50 nm, 75 nm, 100 nm, or greater than 100 nm, depending on the method of preparation. In some embodiments, the dispersion may be a layer sandwiched between the polymeric fabric or textile and the silk coating. In some embodiments, the dispersion may be prepared by coating silk, including silk fibroin with the characteristics described herein, onto the polymeric fabric or textile, and then performing an additional process to form the dispersion, including heating at a temperature of 100 °C, 125 °C, 150 °C, 175 °C, 200 °C, 225 °C, or 250 °C for a time period selected from the group consisting of 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 16 hours, or 24 hours. In some embodiments, heating may be performed at or above the glass transition temperature (T g ) of silk and / or the polymeric fabric or textile, which may be assessed by methods known in the art. In some embodiments, the dispersion may be formed by coating silk, including silk fibroin with the characteristics described herein, onto the polymeric fabric or textile, and then performing an additional process to impregnate the silk coating into the polymeric fabric or textile, including treatment with an organic solvent. Methods for characterizing the properties of polymers dissolved in one another are well known in the art and include differential scanning calorimetry and surface analysis methods capable of depth profiling, including spectroscopic methods.

[0020] Compositions of the present disclosure are "hypoallergenic" meaning that they are relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Such hypoallergenicity can be evidenced by participants topically applying compositions of the present disclosure on their skin for an extended period of time. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 3 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 7 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 14 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 21 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is about 30 days. In an embodiment, the extended period of time is selected from the group consisting of about 1 month, about 2 months, about 3 months, about 4 months, about 5 months, about 6 months, about 7 months, about 8 months, about 9 months, about 10 months, about 11 months, about 12 months, and indefinitely.

[0021] In some embodiments, where aqueous solutions are used to prepare SPF compositions or SPF containing coatings, the aqueous solutions may be prepared with DI water or tap water. As used herein, "tap water" refers to potable water provided by public utilities and water of comparable quality, regardless of the source, without further refinement such as by reverse osmosis, distillation, and / or deionization. Therefore, the use of "DI water," "RODI water," or "water," as set forth herein, may be understood to be interchangeable with "tap water" according to the processes described herein without deleterious effects to such processes.Textiles and Leathers Coated with Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments

[0022] As used herein, the term "washable" and "exhibiting washability" means that a silk coated fabric is capable of being washed without shrinking or fading.

[0023] As used herein, the term "textile" refers to a flexible woven or non-woven material consisting of a network of natural or artificial fibers often referred to as fabric, thread, or yarn. In an embodiment, textiles can be used to fabricate clothing, shoes and bags. In an embodiment, textiles can be used to fabricate carpeting, upholstered furnishings, window shades, towels, and coverings for tables, beds, and other flat surfaces. In an embodiment, textiles can be used to fabricate flags, backpacks, tents, nets, handkerchiefs, balloons, kites, sails, and parachutes.

[0024] As used herein, the term "leather" refers to natural leather and synthetic leather. Natural leather includes chrome-tanned leather (e.g., tanned using chromium sulfate and other chromium salts), vegetable-tanned leather (e.g., tanned using tannins), aldehyde-tanned leather (also known as wet-white leather, e.g., tanned using glutaraldehyde or oxazolidine compounds), brain-tanned leather, formaldehyde-tanned leather, Chamois leather (e.g., tanned using cod oils), rose-tanned leather (e.g., tanned using rose otto oils), synthetic-tanned leather (e.g., tanned using aromatic polymers), alum-tanned leather, patent leather, Vachetta leather, nubuck leather, and rawhide leather. Natural leather also includes split leather, full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and corrected-grain leather, the properties and preparation of which are known to those of skill in the art. Synthetic leather includes poromeric imitation leathers (e.g., polyurethane on polyester), vinyl and polyamide felt fibers, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyamide, polyester, textile-polymer composite microfibers, corfan, koskin, leatherette, BIOTHANE ®< , BIRKIBUC ®< , BIRKO-FLOR ®< , CLARINO ®< , ECOLORICA ®< , KYDEX ®< , LORICA ®< , NAUGAHYDE ®< , REXINE ®< , VEGETAN ®< , FABRIKOID ®< , or combinations thereof.

[0025] As used herein, the term "hand" refers to the feel of a fabric, which may be further described as the feeling of softness, crispness, dryness, silkiness, and combinations thereof. Fabric hand is also referred to as "drape." A fabric with a hard hand is coarse, rough, and generally less comfortable for the wearer. A fabric with a soft hand is fluid and smooth, such as fine silk or wool, and generally more comfortable for the wearer. Fabric hand can be determined by comparison to collections of fabric samples, or by use of methods such as the Kawabata Evaluation System (KES) or the Fabric Assurance by Simple Testing (FAST) methods. Behera and Hari, Ind. J. Fibre & Textile Res., 1994, 19, 168-71.

[0026] As used herein, the term "yarn" refers to a single or multi-fiber construct.

[0027] As used herein, a "coating" refers to a material, or combination of materials, that form a substantially continuous layer or film on an exterior surface of a substrate, such as a textile. In some embodiments, a portion of the coating may penetrate at least partially into the substrate. In some embodiments, the coating may penetrate at least partially into the interstices of a substrate. In some embodiments, the coating may be infused into a surface of the substrate such that the application of the coating, or coating process, may include infusing (at the melting temperature of the substrate) at least one coating component at least partially into a surface of the substrate. A coating may be applied to a substrate by one or more of the processes described herein.

[0028] In embodiments described where the coating may be infused into a surface of the substrate, the coating may be codissolved in a surface of the substrate such that a component of the coating may be intermixed in the surface of the substrate to a depth of at least about 1 nm, or at least about 2 nm, or at least about 3 nm, or at least about 4 nm, or at least about 5 nm, or at least about 6 nm, or at least about 7 nm, or at least about 8 nm, or at least about 9 nm, or at least about 10 nm, or at least about 20 nm, or at least about 30 nm, or at least about 40 nm, or at least about 50 nm, or at least about 60 nm, or at least about 70 nm, or at least about 80 nm, or at least about 90 nm, or at least about 100 nm. In some embodiments, the coating may be infused into a surface of the substrate where the substrate includes one or more polymers including polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, silicone, mixtures of polyurethane and polyethyleneglycol, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, high-performance polyethylene, nylon, and LYCRA.

[0029] As used herein, the term "bath coating" encompasses coating a fabric in a batch, immersing a fabric in a bath, and submerging a fabric in a bath. Concepts of bath coating are set forth in U.S. Patent No. 4,521,458.

[0030] As used herein, and unless more specifically described, the term "drying" may refer to drying a coated material as described herein at a temperature greater than room temperature (i.e., 20 °C).

[0031] In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile used for human apparel, including performance and / or athletic apparel. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, and wherein the textile or leather product exhibits improved moisture management properties and / or resistance to microbial growth. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product used for home upholstery. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile or leather product is used for automobile upholstery. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile or leather product is used for aircraft upholstery. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile or leather product is used for upholstery in transportation vehicles for public, commercial, military, or other use, including buses and trains. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile or leather product is used for upholstery of a product that requires a high degree of resistance to wear as compared to normal upholstery.

[0032] In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as trim on automobile upholstery. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a steering wheel. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a headrest. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as an armrest. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as an automobile floor mat. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as automobile or vehicle carpet. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as automotive trim. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a children's car seat. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a seat belt or safety harness. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a dashboard. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a seat. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a seat panel. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as an interior panel. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as an airbag cover. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as an airbag. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a sunvisor. In an embodiment, the present description provides a textile or leather product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the textile is a textile or leather product fabricated as a wiring harness. In an embodiment, the present description provides a product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the product is a cushion. In an embodiment, the present description provides a product coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the product is automotive, aircraft, or other vehicular insulation. The coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.

[0033] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a textile or leather coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of tents, sleeping bags, ponchos, and soft-walled coolers. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of athletic equipment. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of outdoor gear. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of hiking gear, such as harnesses and backpacks. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of climbing gear. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is canvas.

[0034] In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of a hat. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of an umbrella. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of a tent. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of a baby sleeper, a baby blanket, or a baby pajama. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of a glove, such as a driving glove or an athletic glove. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of athletic pants, such as sweat pants, jogging pants, yoga pants, or pants for use in competitive sports. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of athletic shirts, such as sweat shirts, jogging shirts, yoga shirts, or shirts for use in competitive sports. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of beach equipment, such as beach umbrellas, beach chairs, beach blankets, and beach towels. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of jackets or overcoats. In an embodiment, the textile or leather is a textile or leather used in the manufacture of medical garments, such as surgical drapes, surgical gowns, surgical sleeves, laboratory sleeves, laboratory coats, wound dressings, sterilization wraps, surgical face masks, retention bandages, support devices, compression bandages, shoe covers, surgical blankets. The coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.

[0035] In an embodiment, the present description provides a shoe coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof. In an embodiment, the present description provides a shoe coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the shoe exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated shoe. In an embodiment, the present description provides a shoe coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the shoe exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated shoe, and wherein the improved property is stain resistance. In an embodiment, the present description provides a shoe coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the shoe exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated shoe, and wherein the shoe is made of natural leather or synthetic leather. The coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.

[0036] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa.

[0037] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, and wherein the article is a textile or leather.

[0038] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin.

[0039] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0040] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0041] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof.

[0042] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer.

[0043] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.

[0044] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof.

[0045] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof.

[0046] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof.

[0047] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric exhibits an improved property, wherein the improved property is an accumulative one-way moisture transport index selected from the group consisting of greater than 40 %, greater than 60 %, greater than 80 %, greater than 100 %, greater than 120 %, greater than 140 %, greater than 160 %, and greater than 180%. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved property is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0048] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric exhibits an improved property, wherein the improved property is an accumulative one way transport capability increase relative to uncoated fabric selected from the group consisting of 1.2 fold, 1.5 fold, 2.0 fold, 3.0 fold, 4.0 fold, 5.0 fold, and 10 fold. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved property is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0049] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric exhibits an improved property, wherein the improved property is an overall moisture management capability selected from the group consisting of greater than 0.05, greater than 0.10, greater than 0.15, greater than 0.20, greater than 0.25, greater than 0.30, greater than 0.35, greater than 0.40, greater than 0.50, greater than 0.60, greater than 0.70, and greater than 0.80. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved property is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0050] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric exhibits substantially no increase in microbial growth after a number of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0051] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric exhibits substantially no increase in microbial growth after a number of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles, and wherein the microbial growth is microbial growth of a microbe selected from the group consisting of Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and combinations thereof.

[0052] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric exhibits substantially no increase in microbial growth after a number of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles, wherein the microbial growth is microbial growth of a microbe selected from the group consisting of Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and combinations thereof, wherein the microbial growth is reduced by a percentage selected from the group consisting of 50 %, 100 %, 500 %, 1000 %, 2000 %, and 3000 % compared to an uncoated fabric.

[0053] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fiber level prior to forming the fabric.

[0054] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level or garment level (e.g., after manufacture of a garment from fabrics, leathers, and / or other materials).

[0055] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level or garment level, and wherein the fabric is bath coated.

[0056] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level or garment level, and wherein the fabric is spray coated.

[0057] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level or garment level, and wherein the fabric is coated with a stencil.

[0058] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level or garment level, and wherein the coating is applied to at least one side of the fabric using a method selected from the group consisting of a bath coating process, a spray coating process, a stencil (i.e., screen) process, a silk-foam based process, a roller-based process, a magnetic roller process, a knife process, a transfer process, a foam process, a lacquering process, and a printing process. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level, and wherein the coating is applied to both sides of the fabric using a method selected from the group consisting of a bath coating process, a spray coating process, a stencil (i.e., screen) process, a silk-foam based process, a roller-based process, a magnetic roller process, a knife process, a transfer process, a foam process, a lacquering process, and a printing process.

[0059] In any of the foregoing embodiment, the coating may be applied at the fabric garment level by any of the methods disclosed herein to recondition fabrics or garments. For example, such reconditioning using a coating comprising silk based proteins or fragments thereof may be performed as part of washing or cleaning a fabric or garment.

[0060] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, and wherein the coating has a thickness of about one nanolayer.

[0061] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, and wherein the coating has a thickness selected from the group consisting of about 5 nm, about 10 nm, about 15 nm, about 20 nm, about 25 nm, about 50 nm, about 100 nm, about 200 nm, about 500 nm, about 1 µm, about 5 µm, about 10 µm, and about 20 µm.

[0062] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the coating is adsorbed on the fabric.

[0063] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the coating is attached to the fabric through chemical, enzymatic, thermal, or irradiative cross-linking.

[0064] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level, and wherein the hand of the coated fabric is improved relative to an uncoated fabric.

[0065] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level, and wherein the hand of the coated fabric is improved relative to an uncoated fabric, wherein the hand of the coated fabric that is improved is selected from the group consisting of softness, crispness, dryness, silkiness, and combinations thereof.

[0066] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is applied to the fabric at the fabric level, and wherein the pilling of the fabric is improved relative to an uncoated fabric.

[0067] In an embodiment, the silk coating is applied using a bath process, a screen (or stencil) process, a spray process, a silk-foam based process, and a roller based process.

[0068] In an embodiment, a fiber or a yarn comprises a synthetic fiber or yarn, including polyester, Mylar, cotton, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, rayon, acetate, aramid (aromatic polyamide), acrylic, ingeo (polylactide), lurex (polyamide-polyester), olefin (polyethylene-polypropylene), and combinations thereof.

[0069] In an embodiment, a fiber or a yarn comprises a natural fiber or yarn (e.g., from animal or plant sources), including alpaca fiber, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fiber, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere and sheep fiber, sheep fleece, sheep wool, byssus, chiengora, quiviut, yak, rabbit, lambswool, mohair wool, camel hair, angora wool, silkworm silk, abaca fiber, coir fiber, flax fiber, jute fiber, kapok fiber, kenaf fiber, raffia fiber, bamboo fiber, hemp, modal fiber, pina, ramie, sisal, and soy protein fiber.

[0070] In an embodiment, a fiber or a yarn comprises a mineral fiber, also known as mineral wool, mineral cotton, or man-made mineral fiber, including fiberglass, glass, glasswool, stone wool, rock wool, slagwool, glass filaments, asbestos fibers, and ceramic fibers.

[0071] In an embodiment, a water-soluble silk coating may be used as an adhesive or binder for binding particles to fabrics or for binding fabrics. In an embodiment, an article comprises a fabric bound to another fabric using a silk coating. In an embodiment, an article comprises a fabric with particles bound to the fabric using a silk adhesive.

[0072] In an embodiment, the coating is applied to an article including a fabric at the yarn level. In an embodiment, the coating is applied at the fabric level. In an embodiment, the coating has a thickness selected from the group consisting of about 5 nm, about 10 nm, about 15 nm, about 20 nm, about 25 nm, about 50 nm, about 100 nm, about 200 nm, about 500 nm, about 1 µm, about 5 µm, about 10 µm, and about 20 µm. In an embodiment, the coating has a thickness range selected from the group consisting of about 5 nm to about 100 nm, about 100 nm to about 200 nm, about 200 nm to about 500 nm, about 1 µm to about 2 µm, about 2 µm to about 5 µm, about 5 µm to about 10 µm, and about 10 µm to about 20 µm.

[0073] In an embodiment, a fiber or a yarn is treated with a polymer, such as polyglycolide (PGA), polyethylene glycols, copolymers of glycolide, glycolide / L-lactide copolymers (PGA / PLLA), glycolide / trimethylene carbonate copolymers (PGA / TMC), polylactides (PLA), stereocopolymers of PLA, poly-L-lactide (PLLA), poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA), L-lactide / DL-lactide copolymers, co-polymers of PLA, lactide / tetramethylglycolide copolymers, lactide / trimethylene carbonate copolymers, lactide / δ-valerolactone copolymers, lactide / ε-caprolactone copolymers, polydepsipeptides, PLA / polyethylene oxide copolymers, unsymmetrically 3,6-substituted poly-1,4-dioxane-2,5-diones, poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHBA), PHBA / β-hydroxyvalerate copolymers (PHBA / HVA), poly-β-hydroxypropionate (PHPA), poly-p-dioxanone (PDS), poly-δ-valerolactone, poly-ε-caprolactone, methylmethacrylate-N-vinyl pyrrolidine copolymers, polyesteramides, polyesters of oxalic acid, polydihydropyrans, polyalkyl-2-cyanoacrylates, polyurethanes (PU), polyvinylalcohols (PVA), polypeptides, poly-β-malic acid (PMLA), poly-β-alkanoic acids, polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyethyleneoxide (PEO), chitine polymers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyacetal, polyamides, polyesters, polysulphone, polyether ether ketone, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyaryl ether ketone, and polyether ketone ketone.

[0074] In an embodiment, the silk coating surface can be modified silk crystals that range in size from nm to µm.

[0075] The criterion for "visibility" is satisfied by any one of the following: a change in the surface character of the textile; the silk coating fills the interstices where the yarns intersect; or the silk coating blurs or obscures the weave.

[0076] In an embodiment, a silk based protein or fragment solution may be utilized to coat at least a portion of a fabric which can be used to create a textile. In an embodiment, a silk based protein or fragment solution may be weaved into yarn that can be used as a fabric in a textile. In an embodiment, a silk based protein or fragment solution may be used to coat a fiber. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a silk based protein or fragment solution coating at least a portion of a fabric or a textile. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a silk based protein or fragment solution coating a yarn. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a silk based protein or fragment solution coating a fiber.

[0077] There is disclosed a textile that is at least partially surface treated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure so as to result in a silk coating on the textile. In an embodiment, the silk coating of the present disclosure is available in a spray can and can be sprayed on any textile by a consumer. In an embodiment, a textile comprising a silk coating of the present disclosure is sold to a consumer. In an embodiment, a textile of the present disclosure is used in constructing action sportswear / apparel. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure is positioned on the underlining of apparel. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure is positioned on the shell, the lining, or the interlining of apparel. In an embodiment, apparel is partially made from a silk coated textile of the present disclosure and partially made from an uncoated textile. In an embodiment, apparel partially made from a silk coated textile and partially made from an uncoated textile combines an uncoated inert synthetic material with a silk coated inert synthetic material. Examples of inert synthetic material include polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, silicone, mixtures of polyurethane and polyethylenglycol, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, high-performance polyethylene, and mixtures thereof. In an embodiment, apparel partially made from a silk coated textile and partially made from an uncoated textile combines an elastomeric material at least partially covered with a silk coating of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the percentage of silk to elastomeric material can be varied to achieve desired shrink or wrinkle resistant properties.

[0078] In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure is visible. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure positioned on apparel helps control skin temperature. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure positioned on apparel helps control fluid transfer away from the skin. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure positioned on apparel has a soft feel against the skin decreasing abrasions from fabric on skin. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure positioned on a textile has properties that confer at least one of wrinkle resistance, shrinkage resistance, or machine washability to the textile. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure is 100% machine washable and dry cleanable. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure is 100% waterproof. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure is wrinkle resistant. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure is shrink resistant. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure has the qualities of being waterproof, breathable, and elastic and possess a number of other qualities which are highly desirable in action sportswear. In an embodiment, a silk coated textile of the present disclosure manufactured from a silk fabric of the present disclosure further includes LYCRA ®< brand spandex fibers.

[0079] In an embodiment, a textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is a breathable fabric. In an embodiment, a textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is a water-resistant fabric. In an embodiment, a textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is a shrink-resistant fabric. In an embodiment, a textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is a machine-washable fabric. In an embodiment, a textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is a wrinkle resistant fabric. In an embodiment, textile at least partially coated with an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure provides moisture and vitamins to the skin.

[0080] In an embodiment, an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is used to coat a textile or leather. In an embodiment, the concentration of silk in the solution ranges from about 0.1% to about 20.0%. In an embodiment, the concentration of silk in the solution ranges from about 0.1% to about 15.0%. In an embodiment, the concentration of silk in the solution ranges from about 0.5% to about 10.0%. In an embodiment, the concentration of silk in the solution ranges from about 1.0% to about 5.0%. In an embodiment, an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure is applied directly to a fabric. Alternatively, silk microsphere and any additives may be used for coating a fabric. In an embodiment, additives can be added to an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure before coating (e.g., alcohols) to further enhance material properties. In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure can have a pattern to optimize properties of the silk on the fabric. In an embodiment, a coating is applied to a fabric under tension and / or lax to vary penetration in to the fabric.

[0081] In an embodiment, a silk coating of the present disclosure can be applied at the yarn level, followed by creation of a fabric once the yarn is coated. In an embodiment, an aqueous solution of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure can be spun into fibers to make a silk fabric and / or silk fabric blend with other materials known in the apparel industry.Uses of Textiles and Leathers Coated with Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments in Apparel and Garment Applications

[0082] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property. Without being bound by any specific theory, it is postulated that the coating prevents the article from color degradation by separating the fiber or yarn from air or from detergents during washing.

[0083] Methods of testing the color retention property of an article are well within the knowledge of one skilled in the art. A specific method of testing of the color retention property of a fabric is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,142,292.

[0084] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0085] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0086] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0087] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0088] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0089] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0090] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0091] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property.

[0092] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an improved color retention property. In an embodiment, the foregoing color retention property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0093] In an embodiment, a textile or leather of the present disclosure exhibits an improved color retention property. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved color retention property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0094] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0095] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0096] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0097] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0098] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0099] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0100] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0101] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0102] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth.

[0103] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0104] In an embodiment, a textile or leather of the present disclosure exhibits resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth property. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to microbial (including bacterial and fungal) growth property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0105] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0106] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0107] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0108] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0109] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0110] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0111] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0112] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0113] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge.

[0114] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0115] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge property. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to the buildup of static electrical charge property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0116] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0117] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0118] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0119] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0120] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0121] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0122] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0123] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0124] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is mildew resistant.

[0125] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is mildew resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing mildew resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0126] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits mildew resistant property. In an embodiment, the foregoing mildew resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0127] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0128] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0129] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0130] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0131] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0132] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0133] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0134] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0135] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0136] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating is transparent. In an embodiment, the foregoing transparent property of the coating is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0137] In an embodiment, a textile or leather comprises a silk coating which is transparent. In an embodiment, the foregoing transparent property of the coating is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0138] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0139] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0140] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0141] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0142] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0143] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0144] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0145] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0146] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage.

[0147] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0148] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage. In an embodiment, the foregoing resistant to freeze-thaw cycle damage property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0149] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0150] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0151] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0152] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0153] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0154] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0155] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0156] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0157] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion.

[0158] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the coating provides protection from abrasion. In an embodiment, the foregoing abrasion resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0159] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits abrasion resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing abrasion resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0160] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0161] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0162] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0163] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0164] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0165] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0166] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0167] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0168] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

[0169] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits the property of blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In an embodiment, the foregoing UV blocking property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0170] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits UV blocking property. In an embodiment, the foregoing UV blocking property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0171] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0172] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0173] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0174] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0175] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0176] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0177] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0178] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0179] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer.

[0180] In an embodiment, the present description provides a garment comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the garment regulates the body temperature of a wearer. In an embodiment, the foregoing temperature regulation property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0181] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits a temperature regulation property. In an embodiment, the foregoing temperature regulation property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0182] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0183] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0184] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0185] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0186] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0187] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0188] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0189] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0190] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, and wherein the article is tear resistant.

[0191] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the article is tear resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing tear resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0192] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits a tear resistant property. In an embodiment, the foregoing tear resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0193] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the elasticity of the article is improved.

[0194] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the elasticity of the article is reduced.

[0195] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the elasticity of the article is improved.

[0196] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the elasticity of the article is reduced.

[0197] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property. Without being bound by any specific theory, it is postulated that the coating prevents the article from returning to the original shape or orientation, and results in the rebound dampening property.

[0198] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0199] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0200] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0201] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0202] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0203] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0204] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0205] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property.

[0206] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits a rebound dampening property. In an embodiment, the foregoing rebound dampening property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0207] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits a rebound dampening property. In an embodiment, the foregoing rebound dampening property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0208] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0209] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0210] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0211] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0212] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0213] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0214] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0215] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0216] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property.

[0217] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an anti-itch property. In an embodiment, the foregoing anti-itch property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0218] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits an anti-itch property. In an embodiment, the foregoing anti-itch property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0219] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0220] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0221] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0222] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0223] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0224] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property.

[0225] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article exhibits an improved insulation / warmth property. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved insulation / warmth property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0226] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits improved an insulation / warmth property. In an embodiment, the foregoing improved insulation / warmth property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0227] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0228] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0229] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0230] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0231] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0232] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0233] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0234] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0235] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant.

[0236] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is wrinkle resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing wrinkle resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0237] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits wrinkle resistant property. In an embodiment, the foregoing wrinkle resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0238] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0239] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0240] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0241] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0242] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0243] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0244] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0245] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0246] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is stain resistant.

[0247] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is stain resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing stain resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0248] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits stain resistant property. In an embodiment, the foregoing stain resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0249] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is sticky. Without being bound to any specific theory, it is postulated that the coating provides stickiness and maintains stickiness.

[0250] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is sticky.

[0251] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is sticky.

[0252] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is sticky. In an embodiment, the foregoing sticky property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0253] In an embodiment, a textile or leather exhibits sticky property. In an embodiment, the foregoing sticky property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0254] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a textile or leather coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits improved flame resistance relative to an uncoated textile. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a textile or leather coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits equal flame resistance relative to an uncoated textile or leather. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a textile or leather coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits equal flame resistance relative to an uncoated textile or leather, wherein an alternative textile or leather coating exhibits reduced flame resistance. In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a textile or leather coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article exhibits improved resistance to fire relative to an uncoated textile or leather, wherein the improved resistance to fire is determined by a flammability test. In an embodiment, the flammability test measures afterflame time, afterglow time, char length, and the observation of fabric melting or dripping.

[0255] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0256] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0257] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a polyester having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0258] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof comprise silk fibroin-based proteins or protein fragments having about 0.01% (w / w) to about 10% (w / w) sericin, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0259] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0260] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0261] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are selected from the group consisting of natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof, recombinant silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof are natural silk based proteins or fragments thereof that are selected from the group consisting of spider silk based proteins or fragments thereof, silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and combinations thereof, wherein the natural silk based proteins or fragments are silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof, and the silkworm silk based proteins or fragments thereof is Bombyx mori silk based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0262] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments comprise silk and a copolymer, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0263] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is natural fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cotton, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0264] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the fiber or yarn is selected from the group consisting of natural fiber or yarn, synthetic fiber or yarn, or combinations thereof, wherein the fiber or yarn is synthetic fiber or yarn selected from the group consisting of polyester, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, and combinations thereof, wherein the article is flame resistant.

[0265] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, wherein the fabric is flame resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing flame resistant property of the fabric is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0266] In an embodiment, a textile or leather is flame resistant. In an embodiment, the foregoing flame resistant property of the textile is determined after a period of machine washing cycles selected from the group consisting of 5 cycles, 10 cycles, 25 cycles, and 50 cycles.

[0267] In an embodiment, the present description provides a leather coated with coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the leather exhibits an property selected from the group consisting of an improved color retention property, improved mildew resistance, improved resistance to freeze-thaw cycle damage, improved resistance to abrasion, improved blocking of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, improved regulation of the body temperature of a wearer, improved tear resistance, improved elasticity, improved rebound dampening, improved anti-itch properties, improved insulation, improved wrinkle resistance, improved stain resistance, and improved stickiness. In an embodiment, the present description provides a leather coated with coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the coating is transparent.

[0268] In any of the foregoing embodiments, at least one property of the article is improved, wherein the property that is improved is selected from the group consisting of color retention, resistance to microbial growth, resistance to bacterial growth, resistance to fungal growth, resistance to the buildup of static electrical charge, resistance to the growth of mildew, transparency of the coating, resistance to freeze-thaw cycle damage, resistance from abrasion, blocking of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, regulation of the body temperature of a wearer, resistance to tearing, elasticity of the article, rebound dampening, tendency to cause itching in the wearer, thermal insulation of the wearer, wrinkle resistance, stain resistance, stickiness to skin, and flame resistance, and wherein the property is improved by an amount relative to an uncoated article selected from the group consisting of at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 100%, at least 125%, at least 150%, at least 200%, at least 300%, at least 400%, and at least 500%.

[0269] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.Additional Agents for Use with Textiles Coated with Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments

[0270] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with a wetting agent. In an embodiment, the wetting agent improves one or more coating properties. Suitable wetting agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of wetting agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Imbitex NDTNon silicone low foaming with high wetting in both hot or cold conditions, with good detergency and good stability to alkalis.Imbitex TBLWetting and de-aerating agent.Imbitex MRCWetting and penetrating agent for mercerizing of cotton.Tensolam Na liq.Low foam, special wetting and dispersing agent for nonwoven wet treatments.Imbitex NRW3Wetting agent for water-and oil repellent finishing

[0271] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with a detergent. In an embodiment, the detergent improves one or more coating properties. Suitable detergents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of detergents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Biorol CPNNWetting and detergent agent with alkaline stability in NaOH up to 10° C. Recommended for continuous scouring, bleaching, and Jigger applications.Biorol JK newWetting and detergent agent with extremely low foam properties, recommended for high bath turbulence machine (e.g., jet, overflow).Biorol OW 60General-purpose wetting and detergent agent suitable for desizing, scouring, and bleaching processes.Biorol OWKDetergent / wetting agent, low foaming, high concentration, recommended for over-flow. Useful for removal of silicone oil on Lycra blends.Cesapon Silk liq.Specific scouring, de-gumming agent for silk.Cesapon ExtraHigh detergent power product containing solvent.

[0272] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with a sequestering or dispersing agent. Suitable sequestering or dispersing agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of sequestering or dispersing agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamegal DSPDispersing and anti-redepositing agent useful for preparation dyeing and after soaping of dyed and printed materials with reactive and vat dyes. This product is also useful as an anti-oligomer agent in reduction clearing of polyester, dyed or printed with disperse dyes.Chelam TLW / TMulti-purpose sequestering and dispersing agent for a wide variety of textile processes. No shade variation on dyestuff containing metals.Lamegal TL5Multi-purpose sequestering and dispersing agent for a wide variety of textile processes.

[0273] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with an enzyme. Suitable enzymes are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of enzymes from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lazim HTThermo-stable amylase for rapid high temperature desizing.Lazim PESpecific enzyme for bioscouring; provides optimal wettability, it improves dyeing and color fastness without causing depolymerization and fabric strength loss.

[0274] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with a bleaching agent. Suitable bleaching agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of bleaching agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Stabilox OTN cone.Highly concentrated stabilizer for alkaline bleaching with hydrogen peroxide. Suitable for a wide variety of processes.

[0275] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with an antifoaming agent. Suitable antifoaming agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of antifoaming agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Antifoam SE 47General purpose defoaming agent.Defomex JETSilicone defoamer effective up to 130° C. Recommended for HT and JET dyeing systems.Defomex 2033Non-silicone defoamer.

[0276] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is pretreated with an anti-creasing agent. Suitable anti-creasing agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of anti-creasing agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lubisol AMLubricating and anti-creasing agent for rope wet operation on all kind of fibers and machines.

[0277] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a dye dispersing agent. Suitable dye dispersing agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of dye dispersing agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamegal BOLiquid dispersing agent (non-ionic), suitable for direct, reactive, disperse dyeing and PES stripping.Lamegal DSPDispersing and anti back-staining agent in preparation, dyeing and soaping of dyed and printed materials. Antioligomer agent.Lamegal 619Effective low foam dispersing leveling agent for dyeing of PES.Lamegal TL5Multi-purpose sequestering and dispersing agent for a variety of textile processes.

[0278] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a dye leveling agent. Suitable dye leveling agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of dye leveling agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamegal A 12Leveling agent for dyeing on wool, polyamide and its blends with acid or metal complex dyes.

[0279] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a dye fixing agent. Suitable dye fixing agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of dye fixing agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamfix LFixing agent for direct and reactive dyestuffs, containing formaldehyde.Lamfix LU conc.Formaldehyde free cationic fixing agent for direct and reactive dyes. It does not affect the shade and light fastness.Lamfix PA / TRFixing agent to improve the wet fastness of acid dyes on polyamide fabrics, dyed or printed and polyamide yarns. Retarding agent in dyeing of Polyamide / cellulosic blends with direct dyes.

[0280] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a dye special resin agent. Suitable dye special resin agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of dye special resin agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Denifast TCSpecial resin for cationization of cellulose fibers to obtain special effects ("DENIFAST system" and "DENISOL system").Cobral DD / 50Special resin for cationization of cellulose fibers to obtain special effect ("DENIFAST system" and "DENISOL system").

[0281] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a dye anti-reducing agent. Suitable dye anti-reducing agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of dye anti-reducing agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamberti Redox L2S graAnti-reducing agent in grain form. 100% active content.Lamberti Redox L2S liq.Anti-reducing agent in liquid form for automatic dosage.

[0282] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a pigment dye system anti-migrating agent. Suitable pigment dye system anti-migrating agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of pigment dye system anti-migrating agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Neopat Compound 96 / m conc.Compound, developed as migration inhibitor for continuous dyeing process with pigments (pad-dry process).

[0283] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a pigment dye system binder. Suitable pigment dye system binders are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of pigment dye system binders from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Neopat Binder PM / S cone.Concentrated version of a specific binder used to prepare pad-liquor for dyeing with pigments (pad-dry process).

[0284] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a pigment dye system binder and anti-migrating agent combination. Suitable pigment dye system binder and anti-migrating agent combinations are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of pigment dye system binder and anti-migrating agent combinations from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Neopat Compound PK1Highly concentrated all-in-one product specifically developed as migration inhibitor with specific binder for continuous dyeing process with pigments (pad-dry process).

[0285] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is treated with a delave agent. Suitable delave agents are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of delave agents from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Neopat compound FTNHighly concentrated compound of surfactants and polymers specifically developed for pigment dyeing and pigment-reactive dyeing process; especially for medium / dark shades for wash off effect.

[0286] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is traditionally finished with a wrinkle free treatment. Suitable wrinkle free treatments are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of wrinkle free treatments from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Cellofix ULF conc.Anti-crease modified glyoxalic resin for finishing of cottons, cellulosics and blends with synthetics fibers.Poliflex PO 40Polyethylenic resin for waxy, full and slippy handle by foulard applications.Rolflex WFAliphatic waterborne Nano-PU dispersion used as extender for wrinkle free treatments.

[0287] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is traditionally finished with a softener. Suitable softeners are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of softeners from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Texamina C / FPNCationic softening agent with a very soft handle particularly recommended for application by exhaustion for all kind of fabrics. Suitable also for cone application.Texamina C SAL flakes100% cationic softening agent in flakes form for all type of fabrics. Dispersible at room temperature.Texamina CL LIQ.Amphoteric softening agent for all types of fabrics. Not yellowing.Texamina HVOAmphoteric softening agent for woven and knitted fabrics of cotton, other cellulosics and blends. Provides a soft, smooth and dry handle. Applied by padding.Texamina SILNonionic silicon dispersion in water. Excellent softening, lubricating and anti-static properties for all fiber types by padding.Texamina SILKSpecial cationic softener with silk protein inside. Provides a "swollen touch" particularly suitable for cellulosic, wool, silk.Lamfinish LWAll-in compound based on special polymeric hydrophilic softeners; by coating, foulard, and exhaustion.Elastolam E50General purpose mono-component silicone elastomeric softener for textile finishingElastolam EC 100Modified polysiloxane micro-emulsion which gives a permanent finishing, with extremely soft and silky handle.

[0288] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is traditionally finished with a handle modifier. Suitable handle modifiers are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of handle modifiers from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Poliflex CSWCationic anti-slipping agent.Poliflex R 75Parafine finishing agent to give waxy handle.Poliflex sCompound specifically developed for special writing effects.Poliflex mCompound for special dry-waxy handle.Lamsoft SW 24Compound for special slippy handle specifically developed for coating application.Lamfinish SLIPPYAll-in-one compound to get a slippy touch; by coating.Laamfinish GUMMYAll-in-one compound to get a gummy touch; by coating.Lamfinish OLDRYAll-in-one compound to get dry-sandy touch especially suitable for vintage effects; by coating.

[0289] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is traditionally finished with a waterborne polyurethane (PU) dispersion. Suitable waterborne polyurethane dispersions for traditional finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of waterborne polyurethane dispersions for traditional finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Rolflex LB 2Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings where bright and rigid top finish is required. It is particularly suitable as a finishing agent for organza touch on silk fabrics. Transparent and shiny.Rolflex HP 51Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for outwear, luggage, technical articles especially where hard and flexible touch is required. Transparent and shiny.Rolflex PU 879Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for outwear, luggage, technical articles where a medium-hard and flexible touch is required.Rolflex ALMAliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for outwear, luggage, technical articles where a soft and flexible touch is required. Can be also suitable for printing application.Rolflex APAliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for outwear, fashion where a soft and gummy touch is required.Rolflex W4Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear where a full, soft and non sticky touch is required.Rolflex ZB7Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, sportswear, fashion and technical articles for industrial applications. The product has a very high charge digestion properties, electrolytes stability and excellent mechanical and tear resistance. Can be also suitable for foam coating and printing application.Rolflex BZ 78Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, sportswear, fashion and technical articles for industrial applications. The product has an excellent hydrolysis resistance, a very high charge digestion and electrolytes stability and an excellent mechanical and tear resistance. Can be also suitable for foam coating and printing application.Rolflex K 110Gives to the coated fabric a full, soft, and slightly sticky handle with excellent fastness on all types of fabrics.Rolflex OP 80Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for outwear, luggage and fashion finishes where an opaque non writing effect is desired.Rolflex NBCAliphatic waterborne PU dispersion generally used by padding application as a filling and zero formaldehyde sizing agent. Can be used for outwear and fashion finishing where a full, elastic and non-sticky touch is required.Rolflex PADAliphatic waterborne PU dispersion specifically designed for padding application for outwear, sportswear and fashion applications where a full, elastic and non sticky touch is required. Excellent washing and dry cleaning fastness as well as good bath stability.Rolflex PNAliphatic waterborne PU dispersion generally applied by padding application for outerwear and fashion high quality applications where strong, elastic non sticky finishes are required.Elafix PV 4Aliphatic blocked isocyanate nano-dispersion used in order to give anti-felting and anti-pilling properties to pure wool fabrics and his blend.Rolflex SW3Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested to be used by padding application for the finishing of outwear, sportswear and fashion where a slippery and elastic touch is required. It is also a good anti-pilling agent. Excellent in wool application.Rolflex C 86Aliphatic cationic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, fashion where medium-soft and pleasant full touch is required. Fabrics treated with the product can be dyed with a selection of dyes, to get double-color effects of different intensity.Rolflex CN 29Aliphatic cationic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, fashion where soft and pleasant full touch is required. Fabrics treated with the product can be dyed with a selection of dyes, to get double-color effects of different intensity.

[0290] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is traditionally finished with a finishing resin. Suitable finishing resins are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of finishing resins from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Textol 110Handle modifier with very soft handle for coating finishesTextol RGDWater emulsion of acrylic copolymer for textile coating, with very rigid handle.Textol SB 21Butadienic resin for finishing and binder for textile printingAppretto PV / CCVinylacetate water dispersion for rigid stiffeningAmisolo BCMS water dispersion for textile finishing as stiffening agentLamovil RPPVOH stabilized solution as stiffening agent

[0291] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is technically finished with a waterborne polyurethane dispersion. Suitable waterborne polyurethane dispersions for technical finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of waterborne polyurethane dispersions for technical finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Rolflex AFPAliphatic polyether polyurethane dispersion in water. The product has high hydrolysis resistance, good breaking load resistance and excellent tear resistance.Rolflex ACFAliphatic polycarbonate polyurethane dispersion in water. The product shows good PU and PVC bonding properties, excellent abrasion resistance as well as chemical resistance, included alcohol.Rolflex V 13Aliphatic polyether / acrylic copolymer polyurethane dispersion in water. The product has good thermoadhesive properties and good adhesion properties on PVC.Rolflex K 80Aliphatic polyether / acrylic copolymer polyurethane dispersion in water. ROLFLEX K 80 is specifically designed as a high performing adhesive for textile lamination. The product has excellent perchloroethylene and water fastness.Rolflex ABCAliphatic polyether polyurethane dispersion in water. Particularly, the product presents very high water column, excellent electrolyte resistance, high LOI index, high resistance to multiple bending.Rolflex ADHAliphatic polyether polyurethane dispersion in water. The product has a very high water column resistance.Rolflex W4Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear where a full, soft and non-sticky touch is required.Rolflex ZB7Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, sportswear, fashion and technical articles for industrial applications. The product has a very high charge digestion properties, electrolytes stability and excellent mechanical and tear resistance. Can be also suitable for foam coating and printing application.Rolflex BZ 78Aliphatic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, sportswear, fashion and technical articles for industrial applications. The product has an excellent hydrolysis resistance, a very high charge digestion and electrolytes stability and an excellent mechanical and tear resistance. Can be also suitable for foam coating and printing application.Rolflex PU 147Aliphatic polyether polyurethane dispersion in water. This product shows good film forming properties at room temperature. It has high fastness to light and ultraviolet radiation and good resistance to water, solvent and chemical agents, as well as mechanical resistance.Rolflex SGAliphatic polyether polyurethane dispersion in water. Due to its thermoplastic properties it is suggested to formulate heat activated adhesives at low temperatures.Elafix PV 4Aliphatic blocked isocyanate nano-dispersion used in order to give antifelting and antipilling properties to pure wool fabrics and his blend.Rolflex C 86Aliphatic cationic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, fashion where medium-soft and pleasant full touch is required. Fabrics treated with the product can be dyed with a selection of dyes, to get double-color effects of different intensity.Rolflex CN 29Aliphatic cationic waterborne PU dispersion particularly suggested for the formulation of textile coatings for clothing, outwear, fashion where soft and pleasant full touch is required. Fabrics treated with the product can be dyed with a selection of dyes, to get double-color effects of different intensity.

[0292] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is technically finished with an oil or water repellant. Suitable oil or water repellants for technical finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of oil or water repellants for technical finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lamgard FT 60General purpose fluorocarbon resin for water and oil repellency; by padding application.Lamgard 48High performance fluorocarbon resin for water and oil repellency; by padding application. High rubbing fastness.Imbitex NRW3Wetting agent for water-and oil repellent finishingLamgard EXTCrosslinker for fluorocarbon resins to improve washing fastness.

[0293] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is technically finished with a flame retardant. Suitable flame retardants for technical finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of flame retardants for technical finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Piroflam 712Non-permanent flame retardant compound for padding and spray application.Piroflam ECOAlogen free flame retardant compound for back coating application for all kind of fibers.Piroflam UBCFlame retardant compound for back coating application for all kind of fibers.

[0294] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is technically finished with a crosslinker. Suitable crosslinkers for technical finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of crosslinkers for technical finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Rolflex BK8Aromatic blocked polyisocyanate in water dispersion. It is suggested as a cross-linking agent in coating pastes based ofpolyurethane resins to improve washing fastness.Fissativo 05Water dispersible aliphatic polyisocyanate suitable as crosslinking agent for acrylic and polyurethane dispersions to improve adhesion and wet and dry scrub resistance.Resina MELMelamine-formaldehyde resin.Cellofix VLFLow formaldehyde melamine resin.

[0295] In an embodiment, the present description provides an article comprising a fiber or yarn having a coating, wherein the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the article is a fabric, and wherein the fabric is technically finished with a thickener for technical finishing. Suitable thickeners for technical finishing are known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary, non-limiting examples of thickeners for technical finishing from a representative supplier, Lamberti SPA, are given in the following table. Lambicol CL 60Fully neutralized synthetic thickener for pigment printing in oil / water emulsion; medium viscosity typeViscolam PU conc.Nonionic polyurethane based thickener with pseudoplastic behavior.Viscolam 115 newAcrylic thickener; not neutralized.Viscolam PS 202Nonionic polyurethane based thickener with Newtonian behavior.Viscolam 1022Nonionic polyurethane based thickener with moderate pseudoplastic behavior.

[0296] In any of the foregoing textile or leather embodiments, the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa. In any of the foregoing textile or leather embodiments, the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa. In any of the foregoing textile or leather embodiments, the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa. In any of the foregoing textile or leather embodiments, the coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa.

[0297] In any of the foregoing textile or leather embodiments, the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.Other Materials Coated with Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments

[0298] In an embodiment, the present description provides a material coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof. The material may be any material suitable for coating, including plastics (e.g., vinyl), foams (e.g., for use in padding and cushioning), and various natural or synthetic products.

[0299] In an embodiment, the present description provides an automobile component coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa. In an embodiment, the present description provides an automobile component coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days. In an embodiment, the present description provides an automobile component coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the automobile component exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated automobile component. In an embodiment, the present description provides an automobile component coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the automobile component exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated automobile component, and wherein the automobile component is selected from the group consisting of an upholstery fabric, a headliner, a seat, a headrest, a transmission control, a floor mat, a carpet fabric, a dashboard, a steering wheel, a trim, a wiring harness, an airbag cover, an airbag, a sunvisor, a seat belt, a headrest, an armrest, and a children's car seat. In an embodiment, the present description provides an electrical component insulated with a coating comprising silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof.

[0300] In an embodiment, the present description provides a foam coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa. In an embodiment, the present description provides a foam coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days. In an embodiment, the present description provides a foam coated with silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof, wherein the foam exhibits an improved property relative to an uncoated foam, and wherein the foam is selected from the group consisting of a polyurethane foam, an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer foam, a low density polyethylene foam, a low density polyethylene foam, a high density polyethylene foam, a polypropylene copolymer foam, a linear low density polyethylene foam, a natural rubber foam, a latex foam, and combinations thereof.

[0301] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the material coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the material coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the material coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the material coating comprises silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa.

[0302] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.Processes for Coating Textiles and Leathers with Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments

[0303] In an embodiment, a method for silk coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) includes immersion of the textile, leather, or other material in any of the aqueous solutions of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, a method for coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) includes spraying. In an embodiment, a method for coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) includes chemical vapor deposition. In an embodiment, a method for silk coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) includes electrochemical coating. In an embodiment, a method for silk coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) includes knife coating to spread any of the aqueous solutions of pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments of the present disclosure onto the fabric. The coated article may then be air dried, dried under heat / air flow, or cross-linked to the fabric surface. In an embodiment, a drying process includes curing with additives, irradiation (e.g., using UV light), heat (e.g., microwave or radiofrequency irradiation), and / or drying at ambient condition. In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a textile, leather, or other material (such as a foam) comprising the step of applying a coating, wherein the coating comprises a solution of silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the coating is applied to at least one side of the textile, leather, or other material using a method selected from the group consisting of a bath coating process, a spray coating process, a stencil (i.e., screen) process, a silk-foam based process, a roller-based process, a magnetic roller process, a knife process, a transfer process, a foam process, a lacquering process, a supercritical fluid impregnation process, and a printing process.

[0304] In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a textile or leather comprising a step selected from the group consisting of providing an unwinding device used to unroll the fabric supply in a roll configuration, providing a feeding system used to control the feed rate of fabric, providing a material compensator used to maintain consistent the fabric tension, providing a coating machine to apply the silk solution (i.e., silk fibroin-based protein fragments) in different state (liquid or foam) to the fabric, providing a measuring system used to control the amount of silk solution applied, providing a dryer used to cure or dry the silk solution on the fabric, providing a cooling station used to bring the fabric temperature close to room value, providing a steering frame used to guide the fabric to the rewinding device and maintain straight edges, providing a rewinding step used to collect the coated fabric in roll, providing UV irradiation for curing of silk and / or other fabric additives (e.g., in a chemical cross-linking step), providing radiofrequency (RF) irradiation (e.g., using microwave irradiation) for drying and chemical cross-linking, and combinations thereof. Suitable chemical and enzymatic cross-linking steps include any method known to those of skill in the art, including N-hydroxysuccinimide ester crosslinking, imidoester crosslinking, carbodiimide crosslinking, dicyclohexyl carbodiimide crosslinking, maleimide crosslinking, haloacetyl crosslinking, pyridyl disulfide crosslinking, hydrazide crosslinking, alkoxyamine crosslinking, reductive amination crosslinking, aryl azide crosslinking, diazirine crosslinking, azide-phosphine crosslinking, transferase crosslinking, hydrolase crosslinking, transglutaminase crosslinking, peptidase crosslinking (e.g., sortase SrtA from Staphylococcus aureus), oxidoreductase crosslinking, tyrosinase crosslinking, laccase crosslinking, peroxidase crosslinking (e.g., horseradish peroxidase), lysyl oxidase crosslinking, and combinations thereof.

[0305] In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a textile or leather comprising the step of applying a coating, wherein the coating comprises a solution of silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, and wherein the coating is applied to at least one side of the textile or leather using a supercritical fluid impregnation process. The supercritical fluid impregnation process may use CO 2 as the supercritical fluid to solubilize and impregnate silk based proteins or fragments thereof into a textile or leather, wherein the supercritical CO 2 may include optional organic modifiers known in the art (e.g., methanol) and may further include additional agents described herein, such as dyes.

[0306] In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a textile or leather comprising the step of applying a coating, wherein the coating comprises a solution of silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, using a handheld aerosol spray suitable for consumer use or an aerosol spray system suitable for use by a professional cleaner (e.g., a dry cleaner).

[0307] In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a textile or leather comprising the step of applying a coating, wherein the coating comprises a solution of silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, using a home washing machine.

[0308] In an embodiment, the present description provides a method of coating a fabric comprising the steps of: (a) applying a pretreatment selected from the group consisting of a wetting agent, a detergent, a sequestering or dispersing agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, an antifoaming agent, an anti-creasing agent, a dye dispersing agent, a dye leveling agent, a dye fixing agent, a dye special resin agent, a dye anti-reducing agent, a pigment dye system anti-migrating agent, a pigment dye system binder, a delave agent, a wrinkle free treatment, a softener, a handle modifier, a waterborne polyurethane dispersion, a finishing resin, an oil or water repellant, a flame retardant, a crosslinker, a thickener for technical finishing, or any combination thereof; (b) applying a coating comprising a solution of silk based proteins or fragments thereof having a weight average molecular weight range of about 5 kDa to about 144 kDa, using a spray, screen, or stencil coating process; and (c) drying and optionally curing the coating.

[0309] In any of the foregoing embodiments of methods, the silk based proteins or protein fragments thereof may have an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, wherein the silk based proteins or fragments thereof have a polydispersity of between about 1.5 and about 3.0, and optionally wherein the proteins or protein fragments, prior to coating the fabric, do not spontaneously or gradually gelate and do not visibly change in color or turbidity when in a solution for at least 10 days.Additives for Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments and Solutions Thereof

[0310] In an embodiment, a solution of the present disclosure is contacted with an additive, such as a therapeutic agent and / or a molecule. In an embodiment, molecules include antioxidants and enzymes. In an embodiment, molecules include ceramics, ceramic particles, metals, metal particles, polymer particles, aldehydes, luminescent molecules, phosphorescent molecules, fluorescent molecules, inorganic particles, organic particles, selenium, ubiquinone derivatives, thiol-based antioxidants, saccharide-containing antioxidants, polyphenols, botanical extracts, caffeic acid, apigenin, pycnogenol, resveratrol, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin B3, vitamin E, vitamin C and derivatives thereof, vitamin D, vitamin A, astaxathin, Lutein, lycopene, essential fatty acids (omegas 3 and 6), iron, zinc, magnesium, flavonoids (soy, Curcumin, Silymarin, Pycnongeol), growth factors, aloe, hyaluronic acid, extracellular matrix proteins, cells, nucleic acids, biomarkers, biological reagents, zinc oxide, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, titanium, allergens in a known dose (for sensitization treatment), essential oils including lemongrass or rosemary oil, and fragrances. Therapeutic agents include small molecules, drugs, proteins, peptides and nucleic acids. In an embodiment, a solution of the present disclosure is contacted with an allergen of known quantity prior to forming the article. Allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat. Known doses of allergen loaded within a silk article can be released at a known rate for controlled exposure allergy study, tests and sensitization treatment.

[0311] In an embodiment, silk fibroin-based protein fragments and solutions thereof may be combined with other soluble and insoluble additives coated onto textiles and leather as described herein, wherein the silk fibroin-based protein fragments and solutions functions as a binder or a dispersion medium for the additives. Additives described herein and those known of ordinary skill in the art for use with coating textiles and leather may be used. The combinations of silk fibroin-based protein fragments and solutions thereof with other soluble and insoluble additives may exhibit improved properties as described herein. The property that is improved may be selected from the group consisting of color retention, resistance to microbial growth, resistance to bacterial growth, resistance to fungal growth, resistance to the buildup of static electrical charge, resistance to the growth of mildew, transparency of the coating, resistance to freeze-thaw cycle damage, resistance from abrasion, blocking of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, regulation of the body temperature of a wearer, resistance to tearing, elasticity of the article, rebound dampening, tendency to cause itching in the wearer, thermal insulation of the wearer, wrinkle resistance, stain resistance, stickiness to skin, flame resistance, and combinations thereof. For example, silk fibroin-based protein fragments and solutions thereof may be combined with insoluble ceramic particles as a suspension, and subsequently coated onto a textile using any of the methods described herein to provide further thermal insulation for the wearer and / or to provide improved flame resistance, or to provide other improved properties.

[0312] In an embodiment, a solution of the present disclosure is used to create an article with microneedles by standard methods known to one in the art for controlled delivery of molecules or therapeutic agents to or through the skin.Processes for Production of Silk Fibroin-Based Protein Fragments and Solutions Thereof

[0313] As used herein, the term "fibroin" includes silkworm fibroin and insect or spider silk protein. In an embodiment, fibroin is obtained from Bombyx mori. In an embodiment, the spider silk protein is selected from the group consisting of swathing silk (Achniform gland silk), egg sac silk (Cylindriform gland silk), egg case silk (Tubuliform silk), non-sticky dragline silk (Ampullate gland silk), attaching thread silk (Pyriform gland silk), sticky silk core fibers (Flagelliform gland silk), and sticky silk outer fibers (Aggregate gland silk).

[0314] Fig. 1 is a flow chart showing various embodiments for producing pure silk fibroin-based protein fragments (SPFs) of the present disclosure. It should be understood that not all of the steps illustrated are necessarily required to fabricate all silk solutions of the present disclosure. As illustrated in Fig. 1, step A , cocoons (heat-treated or non-heat-treated), silk fibers, silk powder or spider silk can be used as the silk source. If starting from raw silk cocoons from Bombyx mori, the cocoons can be cut into small pieces, for example pieces of approximately equal size, step B1. The raw silk is then extracted and rinsed to remove any sericin, step C1a. This results in substantially sericin free raw silk. In an embodiment, water is heated to a temperature between 84°C and 100°C (ideally boiling) and then Na 2 CO 3 (sodium carbonate) is added to the boiling water until the Na 2 CO 3 is completely dissolved. The raw silk is added to the boiling water / Na 2 CO 3 (100°C) and submerged for approximately 15 - 90 minutes, where boiling for a longer time results in smaller silk protein fragments. In an embodiment, the water volume equals about 0.4 x raw silk weight and the Na 2 CO 3 volume equals about 0.848 x raw silk weight. In an embodiment, the water volume equals 0.1 x raw silk weight and the Na 2 CO 3 volume is maintained at 2.12g / L. This is demonstrated in Fig. 38A and Fig. 38B silk mass (x-axis) was varied in the same volume of extraction solution (i.e., the same volume of water and concentration of Na 2 CO 3 ) achieving sericin removal (substantially sericin free) as demonstrated by an overall silk mass loss of 26 to 31 percent (y-axis). Subsequently, the water dissolved Na 2 CO 3 solution is drained and excess water / Na 2 CO 3 is removed from the silk fibroin fibers (e.g., ring out the fibroin extract by hand, spin cycle using a machine). The resulting silk fibroin extract is rinsed with warm to hot water to remove any remaining adsorbed sericin or contaminate, typically at a temperature range of about 40°C to about 80°C, changing the volume of water at least once (repeated for as many times as required). The resulting silk fibroin extract is a substantially sericin-depleted silk fibroin. In an embodiment, the resulting silk fibroin extract is rinsed with water at a temperature of about 60°C. In an embodiment, the volume of rinse water for each cycle equals 0.1 L to 0.2 L x raw silk weight. It may be advantageous to agitate, turn or circulate the rinse water to maximize the rinse effect. After rinsing, excess water is removed from the extracted silk fibroin fibers (e.g., ring out fibroin extract by hand or using a machine). Alternatively, methods known to one skilled in the art such as pressure, temperature, or other reagents or combinations thereof may be used for the purpose of sericin extraction. Alternatively, the silk gland (100% sericin free silk protein) can be removed directly from a worm. This would result in liquid silk protein, without any alteration of the protein structure, free of sericin.

[0315] The extracted fibroin fibers are then allowed to dry completely. Fig. 3 is a photograph showing dry extracted silk fibroin. Once dry, the extracted silk fibroin is dissolved using a solvent added to the silk fibroin at a temperature between ambient and boiling, step C1b. In an embodiment, the solvent is a solution of Lithium bromide (LiBr) (boiling for LiBr is 140°C). Alternatively, the extracted fibroin fibers are not dried but wet and placed in the solvent; solvent concentration can then be varied to achieve similar concentrations as to when adding dried silk to the solvent. The final concentration of LiBr solvent can range from 0.1M to 9.3M. Fig. 39 is a table summarizing the Molecular Weights of silk dissolved from different concentrations of Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and from different extraction and dissolution sizes. Complete dissolution of the extracted fibroin fibers can be achieved by varying the treatment time and temperature along with the concentration of dissolving solvent. Other solvents may be used including phosphate phosphoric acid, calcium nitrate, calcium chloride solution or other concentrated aqueous solutions of inorganic salts. To ensure complete dissolution, the silk fibers should be fully immersed within the already heated solvent solution and then maintained at a temperature ranging from about 60°C to about 140°C for 1-168 hrs. In an embodiment, the silk fibers should be fully immersed within the solvent solution and then placed into a dry oven at a temperature of about 100°C for about 1 hour.

[0316] The temperature at which the silk fibroin extract is added to the LiBr solution (or vice versa) has an effect on the time required to completely dissolve the fibroin and on the resulting molecular weight and polydispersity of the final SPF mixture solution. In an embodiment, silk solvent solution concentration is less than or equal to 20% w / v. In addition, agitation during introduction or dissolution may be used to facilitate dissolution at varying temperatures and concentrations. The temperature of the LiBr solution will provide control over the silk protein fragment mixture molecular weight and polydispersity created. In an embodiment, a higher temperature will more quickly dissolve the silk offering enhanced process scalability and mass production of silk solution. In an embodiment, using a LiBr solution heated to a temperature between 80°C - 140°C reduces the time required in an oven in order to achieve full dissolution. Varying time and temperature at or above 60°C of the dissolution solvent will alter and control the MW and polydispersity of the SPF mixture solutions formed from the original molecular weight of the native silk fibroin protein.

[0317] Alternatively, whole cocoons may be placed directly into a solvent, such as LiBr, bypassing extraction, step B2. This requires subsequent filtration of silk worm particles from the silk and solvent solution and sericin removal using methods know in the art for separating hydrophobic and hydrophilic proteins such as a column separation and / or chromatography, ion exchange, chemical precipitation with salt and / or pH, and or enzymatic digestion and filtration or extraction, all methods are common examples and without limitation for standard protein separation methods, step C2. Non-heat treated cocoons with the silkworm removed, may alternatively be placed into a solvent such as LiBr, bypassing extraction. The methods described above may be used for sericin separation, with the advantage that non-heat treated cocoons will contain significantly less worm debris.

[0318] Dialysis may be used to remove the dissolution solvent from the resulting dissolved fibroin protein fragment solution by dialyzing the solution against a volume of water, step E1. Pre-filtration prior to dialysis is helpful to remove any debris (i.e., silk worm remnants) from the silk and LiBr solution, step D. In one example, a 3 µm or 5µm filter is used with a flow-rate of 200-300mL / min to filter a 0.1% to 1.0% silk-LiBr solution prior to dialysis and potential concentration if desired. A method disclosed herein, as described above, is to use time and / or temperature to decrease the concentration from 9.3M LiBr to a range from 0.1M to 9.3M to facilitate filtration and downstream dialysis, particularly when considering creating a scalable process method. Alternatively, without the use of additional time or temperate, a 9.3M LiBr-silk protein fragment solution may be diluted with water to facilitate debris filtration and dialysis. The result of dissolution at the desired time and temperate filtration is a translucent particle-free room temperature shelf-stable silk protein fragment-LiBr solution of a known MW and polydispersity. It is advantageous to change the dialysis water regularly until the solvent has been removed (e.g., change water after 1 hour, 4 hours, and then every 12 hours for a total of 6 water changes). The total number of water volume changes may be varied based on the resulting concentration of solvent used for silk protein dissolution and fragmentation. After dialysis, the final silk solution maybe further filtered to remove any remaining debris (i.e., silk worm remnants).

[0319] Alternatively, Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF), which is a rapid and efficient method for the separation and purification of biomolecules, may be used to remove the solvent from the resulting dissolved fibroin solution, step E2. TFF offers a highly pure aqueous silk protein fragment solution and enables scalability of the process in order to produce large volumes of the solution in a controlled and repeatable manner. The silk and LiBr solution may be diluted prior to TFF (20% down to 0.1% silk in either water or LiBr). Pre-filtration as described above prior to TFF processing may maintain filter efficiency and potentially avoids the creation of silk gel boundary layers on the filter's surface as the result of the presence of debris particles. Pre-filtration prior to TFF is also helpful to remove any remaining debris (i.e., silk worm remnants) from the silk and LiBr solution that may cause spontaneous or long-term gelation of the resulting water only solution, step D. TFF, recirculating or single pass, may be used for the creation of water-silk protein fragment solutions ranging from 0.1% silk to 30.0% silk (more preferably, 0.1% - 6.0% silk). Different cutoff size TFF membranes may be required based upon the desired concentration, molecular weight and polydispersity of the silk protein fragment mixture in solution. Membranes ranging from 1-100 kDa may be necessary for varying molecular weight silk solutions created for example by varying the length of extraction boil time or the time and temperate in dissolution solvent (e.g., LiBr). In an embodiment, a TFF 5 or 10 kDa membrane is used to purify the silk protein fragment mixture solution and to create the final desired silk-to-water ratio. As well, TFF single pass, TFF, and other methods known in the art, such as a falling film evaporator, may be used to concentrate the solution following removal of the dissolution solvent (e.g., LiBr) (with resulting desired concentration ranging from 0.1% to 30% silk). This can be used as an alternative to standard HFIP concentration methods known in the art to create a water-based solution. A larger pore membrane could also be utilized to filter out small silk protein fragments and to create a solution of higher molecular weight silk with and / or without tighter polydispersity values. Fig. 37 is a table summarizing Molecular Weights for some embodiments of silk protein solutions of the present disclosure. Silk protein solution processing conditions were as follows: 100°C extraction for 20 min, room temperature rinse, LiBr in 60°C oven for 4-6 hours. Figs. 40-49 further demonstrate manipulation of extraction time, LiBr dissolution conditions, and TFF processing and resultant example molecular weights and polydispersities. These examples are not intended to be limiting, but rather to demonstrate the potential of specifying parameters for specific molecular weight silk fragment solutions.

[0320] An assay for LiBr and Na 2 CO 3 detection was performed using an HPLC system equipped with evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD). The calculation was performed by linear regression of the resulting peak areas for the analyte plotted against concentration. More than one sample of a number of formulations of the present disclosure was used for sample preparation and analysis. Generally, four samples of different formulations were weighed directly in a 10 mL volumetric flask.

[0321] The analytical method developed for the quantitation of Na 2 CO 3 and LiBr in silk protein formulations was found to be linear in the range 10 - 165 µg / mL, with RSD for injection precision as 2% and 1% for area and 0.38% and 0.19% for retention time for sodium carbonate and lithium bromide respectively. The analytical method can be applied for the quantitative determination of sodium carbonate and lithium bromide in silk protein formulations.

[0322] The final silk protein fragment solution, as shown in Fig. 4, is pure silk protein fragments and water with PPM to undetectable levels of particulate debris and / or process contaminants, including LiBr and Na 2 CO 3 . Fig. 34 and Fig. 35 are tables summarizing LiBr and Na 2 CO 3 concentrations in solutions of the present disclosure. In Fig. 34, the processing conditions included 100°C extraction for 60 min, 60°C rinse, 100°C LiBr in 100°C oven for 60 min. TFF conditions including pressure differential and number of diafiltration volumes were varied. In Fig. 35, the processing conditions included 100°C boil for 60 min, 60°C rinse, LiBr in 60°C oven for 4-6 hours. In an embodiment, a SPF composition of the present disclosure is not soluble in an aqueous solution due to the crystallinity of the protein. In an embodiment, a SPF composition of the present disclosure is soluble in an aqueous solution. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a crystalline portion of about two-thirds and an amorphous region of about one-third. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a crystalline portion of about one-half and an amorphous region of about one-half. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 99% crystalline portion and a 1% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 95% crystalline portion and a 5% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 90% crystalline portion and a 10% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 85% crystalline portion and a 15% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 80% crystalline portion and a 20% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 75% crystalline portion and a 25% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 70% crystalline portion and a 30% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 65% crystalline portion and a 35% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 60% crystalline portion and a 40% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 50% crystalline portion and a 50% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 40% crystalline portion and a 60% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 35% crystalline portion and a 65% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 30% crystalline portion and a 70% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 25% crystalline portion and a 75% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 20% crystalline portion and a 80% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 15% crystalline portion and a 85% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 10% crystalline portion and a 90% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 5% crystalline portion and a 90% amorphous region. In an embodiment, the SPFs of a composition of the present disclosure include a 1% crystalline portion and a 99% amorphous region.

[0323] A unique feature of the SPF compositions of the present disclosure are shelf stability (they will not slowly or spontaneously gel when stored in an aqueous solution and there is no aggregation of fragments and therefore no increase in molecular weight over time), from 10 days to 3 years depending on storage conditions, percent silk, and number of shipments and shipment conditions. Additionally pH may be altered to extend shelf-life and / or support shipping conditions by preventing premature folding and aggregation of the silk. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 2 weeks at room temperature (RT). In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 4 weeks at RT. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 6 weeks at RT. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 8 weeks at RT. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 10 weeks at RT. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability for up to 12 weeks at RT. In an embodiment, a SPF solution composition of the present disclosure has a shelf stability ranging from about 4 weeks to about 52 weeks at RT. Table 1 below shows shelf stability test results for embodiments of SPF compositions of the present disclosure. Table 1. Shelf Stability of SPF Compositions of the Present Disclosure% SilkTemperatureTime to Gelation2RT4 weeks24C>9 weeks4RT4 weeks44C>9 weeks6RT2 weeks64C>9 weeks

[0324] A silk fragment-water solution of the present disclosure can be sterilized following standard methods in the art not limited to filtration, heat, radiation or e-beam. It is anticipated that the silk protein fragment mixture, because of its shorter protein polymer length, will withstand sterilization better than intact silk protein solutions described in the art. Additionally, silk articles created from the SPF mixtures described herein may be sterilized as appropriate to application.

[0325] Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing various parameters that can be modified during the process of producing a silk protein fragment solution of the present disclosure during the extraction and the dissolution steps. Select method parameters may be altered to achieve distinct final solution characteristics depending upon the intended use, e.g., molecular weight and polydispersity. It should be understood that not all of the steps illustrated are necessarily required to fabricate all silk solutions of the present disclosure.

[0326] In an embodiment, a process for producing a silk protein fragment solution of the present disclosure includes forming pieces of silk cocoons from the Bombyx mori silk worm; extracting the pieces at about 100°C in a solution of water and Na 2 CO 3 for about 60 minutes, wherein a volume of the water equals about 0.4 x raw silk weight and the amount of Na 2 CO 3 is about 0.848 x the weight of the pieces to form a silk fibroin extract; triple rinsing the silk fibroin extract at about 60°C for about 20 minutes per rinse in a volume of rinse water, wherein the rinse water for each cycle equals about 0.2 L x the weight of the pieces; removing excess water from the silk fibroin extract; drying the silk fibroin extract; dissolving the dry silk fibroin extract in a LiBr solution, wherein the LiBr solution is first heated to about 100°C to create a silk and LiBr solution and maintained; placing the silk and LiBr solution in a dry oven at about 100°C for about 60 minutes to achieve complete dissolution and further fragmentation of the native silk protein structure into mixture with desired molecular weight and polydispersity; filtering the solution to remove any remaining debris from the silkworm; diluting the solution with water to result in a 1% silk solution; and removing solvent from the solution using Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF). In an embodiment, a 10 kDa membrane is utilized to purify the silk solution and create the final desired silk-to-water ratio. TFF can then be used to further concentrate the pure silk solution to a concentration of 2% silk to water.

[0327] Each process step from raw cocoons to dialysis is scalable to increase efficiency in manufacturing. Whole cocoons are currently purchased as the raw material, but precleaned cocoons or non-heat treated cocoons, where worm removal leaves minimal debris, have also been used. Cutting and cleaning the cocoons is a manual process, however for scalability this process could be made less labor intensive by, for example, using an automated machine in combination with compressed air to remove the worm and any particulates, or using a cutting mill to cut the cocoons into smaller pieces. The extraction step, currently performed in small batches, could be completed in a larger vessel, for example an industrial washing machine where temperatures at or in between 60°C to 100°C can be maintained. The rinsing step could also be completed in the industrial washing machine, eliminating the manual rinse cycles. Dissolution of the silk in LiBr solution could occur in a vessel other than a convection oven, for example a stirred tank reactor. Dialyzing the silk through a series of water changes is a manual and time intensive process, which could be accelerated by changing certain parameters, for example diluting the silk solution prior to dialysis. The dialysis process could be scaled for manufacturing by using semi-automated equipment, for example a tangential flow filtration system.

[0328] Varying extraction (i.e., time and temperature), LiBr (i.e., temperature of LiBr solution when added to silk fibroin extract or vice versa) and dissolution (i.e., time and temperature) parameters results in solvent and silk solutions with different viscosities, homogeneities, and colors (see Figs. 5-32). Increasing the temperature for extraction, lengthening the extraction time, using a higher temperature LiBr solution at emersion and over time when dissolving the silk and increasing the time at temperature (e.g., in an oven as shown here, or an alternative heat source) all resulted in less viscous and more homogeneous solvent and silk solutions. While almost all parameters resulted in a viable silk solution, methods that allow complete dissolution to be achieved in fewer than 4 to 6 hours are preferred for process scalability.

[0329] Figs. 5-10 show photographs of four different silk extraction combinations tested: 90°C 30 min, 90°C 60 min, 100°C 30 min, and 100°C 60 min. Briefly, 9.3 M LiBr was prepared and allowed to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. 5 mL of LiBr solution was added to 1.25 g of silk and placed in the 60°C oven. Samples from each set were removed at 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 168 and 192 hours. The remaining sample was photographed.

[0330] Figs. 11-23 show photographs of four different silk extraction combinations tested: 90°C 30 min, 90°C 60 min, 100°C 30 min, and 100°C 60 min. Briefly, 9.3 M LiBr solution was heated to one of four temperatures: 60°C, 80°C, 100°C or boiling. 5 mL of hot LiBr solution was added to 1.25 g of silk and placed in the 60°C oven. Samples from each set were removed at 1, 4 and 6 hours. The remaining sample was photographed.

[0331] Figs. 24-32 show photographs of four different silk extraction combinations tested: Four different silk extraction combinations were used: 90°C 30 min, 90°C 60 min, 100°C 30 min, and 100°C 60 min. Briefly, 9.3 M LiBr solution was heated to one of four temperatures: 60°C, 80°C, 100°C or boiling. 5 mL of hot LiBr solution was added to 1.25 g of silk and placed in the oven at the same temperature of the LiBr. Samples from each set were removed at 1, 4 and 6 hours. 1 mL of each sample was added to 7.5 mL of 9.3 M LiBr and refrigerated for viscosity testing. The remaining sample was photographed.

[0332] Molecular weight of the silk protein fragments may be controlled based upon the specific parameters utilized during the extraction step, including extraction time and temperature; specific parameters utilized during the dissolution step, including the LiBr temperature at the time of submersion of the silk into the lithium bromide and time that the solution is maintained at specific temperatures; and specific parameters utilized during the filtration step. By controlling process parameters using the disclosed methods, it is possible to create SPF mixture solutions with polydispersity equal to or lower than 2.5 at a variety of different molecular weight ranging from 5 kDa to 200 kDa, more preferably between 10 kDa and 80 kDa. By altering process parameters to achieve silk solutions with different molecular weights, a range of fragment mixture end products, with desired polydispersity of equal to or less than 2.5 may be targeted based upon the desired performance requirements. Additionally, SPF mixture solutions with a polydispersity of greater than 2.5 can be achieved. Further, two solutions with different average molecular weights and polydispersities can be mixed to create combination solutions. Alternatively, a liquid silk gland (100% sericin free silk protein) that has been removed directly from a worm could be used in combination with any of the SPF mixture solutions of the present disclosure. Molecular weight of the pure silk fibroin-based protein fragment composition was determined using High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with a Refractive Index Detector (RID). Polydispersity was calculated using Cirrus GPC Online GPC / SEC Software Version 3.3 (Agilent).

[0333] Parameters were varied during the processing of raw silk cocoons into silk solution. Varying these parameters affected the MW of the resulting silk solution. Parameters manipulated included (i) time and temperature of extraction, (ii) temperature of LiBr, (iii) temperature of dissolution oven, and (iv) dissolution time. Molecular weight was determined with mass spec as shown in Figs. 40-54.

[0334] Experiments were carried out to determine the effect of varying the extraction time. Figs. 40-46 are graphs showing these results, and Tables 2-8 summarize the results. Below is a summary: A sericin extraction time of 30 minutes resulted in larger MW than a sericin extraction time of 60 minutes MW decreases with time in the oven 140°C LiBr and oven resulted in the low end of the confidence interval to be below a MW of 9500 Da 30 min extraction at the 1 hour and 4 hour time points have undigested silk 30 min extraction at the 1 hour time point resulted in a significantly high molecular weight with the low end of the confidence interval being 35,000 Da The range of MW reached for the high end of the confidence interval was 18000 to 216000 Da (important for offering solutions with specified upper limit) Table 2. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 100°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 100°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).Boil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD301572471278035093933871.6360131520138711633854072.71304409732632142681176582.8760425082124810520598032.3830625604140510252639432.5060620980126210073436952.08 Table 3. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, boiling Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 60°C Oven Dissolution for 4 hr.SampleBoil TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 4 hr30496564580173061424782.8760 min, 4 hr6030042153611183807052.69 Table 4. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 60°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleBoil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 1 hr30158436222011538092.6360 min, 1 hr6013170011931842242.6630 min, 4 hr30461956.513337214631788472.8960 min, 4 hr60425578.524469979655642.56 Table 5. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 80°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 80°C Oven Dissolution for 6 hr.SampleBoil TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 6 hr3063510186932157753.4060 min, 6 hr60251642389637657062.61 Table 6. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 80°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleBoil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 4 hr3045920214028190731837603.1060 min, 4 hr60426312.563710266674422.5630 min, 6 hr30646824180761212932.5960 min, 6 hr6062635310168683022.59 Table 7. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 100°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleBoil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 4 hr30447853197581159002.4260 min, 4 hr60425082124810520598042.3830 min, 6 hr306554218992191531603662.8960 min, 6 hr60620980126210073436942.08 Table 8. The effect of extraction time (30 min vs 60 min) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 140°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 140°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleBoil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD30 min, 4 hr3049024.511024493181272.0086560 min, 4 hr604155486954347622.235830 min, 6 hr306130215987283192.174960 min, 6 hr606108885364221002.0298

[0335] Experiments were carried out to determine the effect of varying the extraction temperature. Fig. 47 is a graph showing these results, and Table 9 summarizes the results. Below is a summary: Sericin extraction at 90°C resulted in higher MW than sericin extraction at 100°C extraction Both 90°C and 100°C show decreasing MW over time in the oven Table 9. The effect of extraction temperature (90°C vs. 100°C) on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 60 min. Extraction Temperature, 100°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) and 100°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleBoil TimeOven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD90 °C, 4 hr604373084204133681041192.79100 °C, 4 hr60425082124810520598042.3890 °C, 6 hr60634224113512717921002.69100 °C, 6 hr60620980126210073436942.08

[0336] Experiments were carried out to determine the effect of varying the Lithium Bromide (LiBr) temperature when added to silk. Figs. 48-49 are graphs showing these results, and Tables 10-11 summarize the results. Below is a summary: No impact on MW or confidence interval (all CI -10500-6500 Da) Studies illustrated that the temperature of LiBr-silk dissolution, as LiBr is added and begins dissolving, rapidly drops below the original LiBr temperature due to the majority of the mass being silk at room temp Table 10. The effect of Lithium Bromide (LiBr) temperature on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 60 min. Extraction Time., 100°C Extraction Temperature and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleLiBr Temp (°C)Oven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD60 °C LiBr, 1hr6013170011931842232.66100 °C LiBr, 1hr10012790720010735725522.60RT LiBr, 4hrRT429217108210789791192.7160 °C LiBr, 4hr6042557824459978655642.5680 °C LiBr, 4hr8042631263710265674412.56100 °C LiBr, 4hr100427681172911279679312.45Boil LiBr, 4hrBoil430042153511183807042.69RT LiBr, 6hrRT626543189310783653322.4680 °C LiBr, 6hr8062635310167683012.59100 °C LiBr, 6hr10062715091611020668892.46 Table 11. The effect of Lithium Bromide (LiBr) temperature on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 30 min. Extraction Time, 100°C Extraction Temperature and 60°C Oven Dissolution (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).SampleLiBr Temp (°C)Oven TimeAverage MwStd devConfidence IntervalPD60 °C LiBr, 4hr6046195613336214631788472.8980 °C LiBr, 4hr8045920214027190731837603.10100 °C LiBr, 4hr100447853197571158992.4280 °C LiBr, 6hr80646824180751212922.59100 °C LiBr, 6hr1006554218991191521603662.89

[0337] Experiments were carried out to determine the effect of varying the oven / dissolution temperature. Figs. 50-54 are graphs showing these results, and Tables 12-16 summarize the results. Below is a summary: Oven temperature has less of an effect on 60 min extracted silk than 30 min extracted silk. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the 30 min silk is less degraded during extraction and therefore the oven temperature has more of an effect on the larger MW, less degraded portion of the silk. For 60°C vs. 140°C oven the 30 min extracted silk showed a very significant effect of lower MW at higher oven temp, while 60 min extracted silk had an effect but much less The 140°C oven resulted in a low end in the confidence interval at ~6000 Da Table 12 . The effect of oven / dissolution temperature on molecular weight of silk processed under the conditions of 100°C Extraction Temperature, 30 min. Extraction Time, and 100°C Lithium Bromide (LiBr) (Oven / Dissolution Time was varied).Boil TimeOven Temp (°C)Oven TimeAverage MwStd devConfide...

Claims

1. An article comprising a fiber, a yarn, a textile, or leather, and a coating, wherein the coating comprises: silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof having an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, and a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 to about 3.0, wherein the molecular weight is determined following complete dissolution of the silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof using a High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the coating further comprises a chemical agent.

3. The article of claim 2, wherein the chemical agent is selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial agent, an antifungal agent, a water repellant agent, an oil repellant agent, a dye, a flame retardant, a fabric softener, a pH adjusting agent, an anticrocking agent, an antipilling agent, an antifelting agent, and combinations thereof.

4. The article of claim 2 or 3, wherein the chemical agent is a silicone.

5. The article of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the article is a fabric, a textile, a woven material, a non-woven material, a knit material, a crochet material, a natural leather, a synthetic leather, or a combination thereof.

6. The article of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the article is made of a material comprising one or more of polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, silicone, mixtures of polyurethane and polyethylene glycol, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, high-performance polyethylene, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, chamois leather, patent leather, vachetta leather, nubuck leather, rawhide leather, split leather, full-grain leather, top-grain leather, corrected-grain leather, poromeric imitation leather, vinyl and / or polyamide felt fibers, polyurethane synthetic leather, polyvinyl chloride synthetic leather, polyethylene leather, polypropylene leather, vinyl acetate copolymer synthetic leather, polyamide synthetic leather, polyester synthetic leather, textile-polymer composite microfibers, corfan leather, koskin leather, or leatherette.

7. A method of coating a material with a composition comprising silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof, the method comprising: coating a surface of the material with a solution of silk fibroin based proteins or fragments thereof having an average weight average molecular weight range selected from the group consisting of about 5 to about 10 kDa, about 6 kDa to about 16 kDa, about 17 kDa to about 38 kDa, about 39 kDa to about 80 kDa, about 60 to about 100 kDa, and about 80 kDa to about 144 kDa, and a polydispersity ranging from about 1.5 to about 3.0; and drying the surface of the material that has been coated with the silk fibroin solution to provide the silk fibroin coated material.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising coating the material with a chemical agent.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the chemical agent is added to the silk fibroin solution, or provided in a separate coating step before or after the silk fibroin solution coating step.

10. The method of claim 8 or 9, wherein the chemical agent is selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial agent, an antifungal agent, a water repellant agent, an oil repellant agent, a dye, a flame retardant, a fabric softener, a pH adjusting agent, an anticrocking agent, an antipilling agent, an antifelting agent, and combinations thereof.

11. The method of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the chemical agent is a silicone and is added to the silk fibroin solution.

12. The method of claim 7, the method comprising: (a) preparing a coating solution comprising a concentration of the silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof of less than about 1% by volume (v / v); (b) coating a surface of the material with the coating solution; and (c) coating the surface of the material with silicone to provide a coated material; wherein the coated material comprises improved water transport as compared to a material coated with silicone without silk-based proteins or fragments thereof.

13. The method of claim 7, the method comprising: (a) coating a surface of the material with silicone; (b) preparing a coating solution comprising a concentration of the silk fibroin-based proteins or fragments thereof of less than about 1% by volume (v / v); and (c) coating the surface of the material with the coating solution to provide a coated material; wherein the coated material comprises improved water transport as compared to a material coated with silicone without silk-based proteins or fragments thereof.

14. The method of any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the silk fibroin solution further comprises a Bronsted acid.

15. The method of any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein the material comprises one or more of a fiber, a yarn, a fabric, a textile, a woven material, a non-woven material, a knit material, a crochet material, a natural leather, or a synthetic leather.

16. The method of any one of claims 7 to 15, wherein the material comprises one or more of polyester, polyamide, polyaramid, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, silicone, mixtures of polyurethane and polyethylene glycol, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, high-performance polyethylene, nylon, polyester-polyurethane copolymer, cotton, alpaca fleece, alpaca wool, lama fleece, lama wool, cashmere, sheep fleece, sheep wool, chamois leather, patent leather, vachetta leather, nubuck leather, rawhide leather, split leather, full-grain leather, top-grain leather, corrected-grain leather, poromeric imitation leather, vinyl and / or polyamide felt fibers, polyurethane synthetic leather, polyvinyl chloride synthetic leather, polyethylene leather, polypropylene leather, vinyl acetate copolymer synthetic leather, polyamide synthetic leather, polyester synthetic leather, textile-polymer composite microfibers, corfan leather, koskin leather, or leatherette.