pelure

Pelure is a type of textile produced from the waste products of the silk sericulture industry. The name "pelure" is derived from the French term for "skin" or "skin surface," as the material resembles the outer layer of a silkworm's cocoon.

Pelure is created from the sericin, a sticky protein found on the cocoons of silkworms, which is left over after the extraction of the silk fibers. The sericin is dissolved in a solution and then re-deposited onto a surface to create a thin layer. This layer is then treated with chemicals to enhance its texture and drape.

The resulting material has a soft, delicate, and lustrous appearance, often described as resembling silk or silk-like textures. However, unlike silk, pelure is not made from silkworm fibers, but rather from the sericin protein. Pelure is often used in textile production to create luxury fabrics, especially for high-end fashion garments, clothing, and textiles. Its unique properties make it ideal for applications where a durable, yet soft and flexible material is required.

Pelure has also been used in various industrial and technical applications, including soundproofing materials, medical dressings, and even in the production of certain types of plastic films. Despite its various uses, pelure remains a relatively niche material in the textile industry, primarily due to the relatively high cost of production and the regulatory requirements associated with the use of sericin, a byproduct of the sericulture process.