The application of silk fibroin nanofiber membrane in controlling microbial deterioration of textile cultural relics

Textile cultural relics, as significant carriers of human history and culture, possess irreplaceable historical, artistic, and scientific value. However, natural protein fibers such as silk are highly susceptible to microbial erosion and environmental factors, leading to mechanical degradation, chromatic deterioration, and even complete decomposition. Developing protective materials with both high-efficiency antibacterial properties and heritage compatibility is an urgent need in conservation. Electrospinning technology, which enables the integration of antibacterial active components with matrix fibers, serves as an effective approach for preparing novel antibacterial materials. This study employed electrospinning technology to fabricate nanofiber membranes using silk fibroin (SF)/polyethylene oxide (PEO) as the matrix through optimized ratios (3:7–7:3), and constructed antibacterial functional materials by incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Results demonstrated that the SF/PEO (5:5) fiber membrane exhibited optimal morphology and thermal stability, with XRD confirming its β-sheet crystalline structure. Antibacterial experiments of AgNPs composite membranes deposited on silk demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against the growth of seven microbial species on the silk surface. The 30-min electrospun AgNPs/SF/PEO membrane induced minimal chromatic aberration (ΔE < 3.5) on aged silk while forming an adherent transparent protective layer. This research provides a green and removable antibacterial protection strategy for textile cultural relics, with critical implications for extending the lifespan of cultural relics.