Silk-based microparticles for the adsorption of methylene blue: formulations, characterization, adsorption study, in silico molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation
This research demonstrates that microparticles made from silk fibroin, a protein derived from silkworm cocoons, are exceptionally effective at removing methylene blue dye from water. The silk-based particles work about 32 times better than other forms of silk and can absorb large amounts of the toxic dye. Scientists used computer simulations to understand exactly how the silk protein attracts and binds the dye molecules, providing insights for creating even better eco-friendly water treatment materials.