Preparation and characterization of silk fibroin/collagen sponge modified by chemical cross-linking

3D scaffolds made of blend of silk fibroin and collagen were obtained by lyophilisation process and cross-linking with EDC/NHS. The structure of the scaffolds was studied by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Morphological properties were analyzed by SEM. Porosity for cross-linked samples were measured. The mechanical properties of samples were tested in dry and wet conditions and compared with non-modified samples.The results showed that the blend of silk fibroin and collagen after cross-linking with EDC/NHS and lyophilisation has porous structure. Mechanical properties were improved by cross-linking with EDC/NHS. Moreover, the cross-linked scaffolds have got better stability in water than non cross-linked ones.