Binding Quantum Dots to Silk Biomaterials for Optical Sensing

Figure 1

QDs-loaded silk films exposed to UV light (excitation wavelength at 365 nm). Upper photographs showed as-prepared QDs in solution and encapsulated in silk/glycerol (weight ratio 3/1) films. Lower spectra showed the photoluminescence of as-prepared QDs in water, 4% silk (SF) solution, and silk/glycerol (SF) film, using QDs-free SF solution and SF film as controls. (a) MPA-capped CdTe-QDs. The mass of silk was 12 mg in each film, and the amount of QDs loaded was (from left to right) 0, 9.75, 19.5, 39, 52, and 78 μmol. (b) MEA-capped CdTe-QDs. The mass of silk was 12 mg in each film, and the amount of QDs loaded was (from left to right) 0, 15.75, 31.5, 63, 84, and 126 μmol.

(a)

(b)