seide

Seide, or silk, is a natural protein fiber produced by the larvae of certain moths, most notably the domesticated Bombyx mori. Commercial silk is obtained through sericulture, the cultivation of silkworms and the harvesting of their cocoons. The cocoons consist of a fibroin core coated with sericin, a gum-like protein. After harvesting, sericin is typically removed in a process called degumming to reveal the smooth fiber.

Silk fibers are valued for high tensile strength, elasticity, a distinctive luster, and excellent moisture absorption, which helps regulate temperature. The best-known variety is mulberry silk, produced by Bombyx mori. Wild or non-mulberry silks, such as tussah, eri, and muga, come from other moth species and tend to be coarser with differing colors and textures. Filament diameter typically ranges from about 9 to 12 micrometers, depending on the silkworm and rearing conditions. Silk is mainly composed of fibroin proteins, with sericin acting as a protective coating in the raw fiber.

Historically, silk originated in China and formed a central commodity of the Silk Road, influencing economies and cultures as it spread to Europe and the Middle East. Today major producers include China, India, Vietnam, and Thailand. Silk is used in apparel, home textiles, and specialty applications such as sutures and biomedical scaffolds due to its biocompatibility. Processing and dyeing raise environmental concerns, including land use for mulberry cultivation and wastewater management. The weight of silk fabric is commonly measured in momme (mm), a traditional indicator of density and quality.