Abstract: Poly(L-lactide-co-silk fibroin) copolymers (PSFLA) were sythesized through ring-opening copolymerization of L-lactide prepared from L-lactic acid, and silk fibroin with Sn(Oct)₂ /naphthalene disulfonic acid as the catalyst system. PSFLA was acted as the compatibilizer for the blends of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and silk fibroin (SF) with hexafluoroisopropanol using as solvent. FT-IR, differential scaning calorimetry, thermogravimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electronic universal testing machine were then employed for the characterization of these blends. The results showed that PSFLA chains contained PLLA units and SF units, while PLLA units probably possessed crystalline morphology. PSFLA had good thermal stability with initial thermal decomposition temperature at 220 ℃, and the maximum degradation rate at above 300 ℃. The compatibilities and mechanical properties of the blends were improved with the addition of PSFLA. When 8% PSFLA was added, the blend showed maximum mechanical property with tensile strength of 5.24 MPa and breaking elongation of 117.45%.

Key words: poly(L-lactic acid), silk fibroin, blend, compatibilizer