Conceptual Technical and Commercial Feasibility of Biodegradable Silk-Based Electronic Systems

Abstract

Electronic waste is a growing environmental and public-health concern, creating demand for electronic systems that reduce persistent waste. Silk fibroin has received attention as a flexible, biodegradable, biocompatible, and processable biomaterial for electronic applications. In this conceptual feasibility study, we evaluate the potential use of silk fibroin within SilkBound, a proposed layered electronic system intended for temporary medical, wearable, and environmental applications. We combined findings from published research on silk-based and transient electronics with preliminary market evidence collected through a user survey. Technical feasibility was evaluated based on material function, electrical integration, flexibility, mechanical durability, moisture sensitivity, thermal stability, reliability, device lifespan, degradation control, and manufacturing requirements. The preliminary survey was used to identify possible adoption drivers and barriers and is reported with its methodological detail. Existing research supports the use of silk fibroin as a substrate, dielectric, encapsulation material, and, in some systems, a functional electronic component. However, the feasibility of SilkBound as a complete device cannot yet be confirmed because an integrated prototype has not been fabricated or tested. The concept appears most promising for specialized temporary applications in which flexibility and controlled degradation offer clear advantages over conventional materials. Future research should identify an initial application, select compatible materials, fabricate a prototype, and evaluate performance, degradation, safety, environmental impact, manufacturing scalability, and cost.

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