This project looks at developing granular scaffolds from silk for medical applications. Silk is a very valuable biomaterial because it is highly compatible with the human body and can be formulated in a variety of methods. This lab has previously formulated silk into particles for drug delivery and has also extensively explored the mechanical properties of silk sponges. Granular scaffolds are essentially a combination of these two forms: this unique structure allows cells to proliferate to promote wound healing while also containing particles that can release certain compounds such as anti-inflammatories. By changing key steps in particle synthesis, such as boiling time and sonication, we can change the size of the particles. We aim for large particles that are similar in size capable encapsulating bioactive compounds. We are also experimenting with the water-annealing temperature to examine changes in morphology and level of crystallinity.