| Title |
Strengthening of Porcine Plasma Protein Superabsorbent Materials through a Solubilization-Freeze-Drying Process |
| ID_Doc |
29097 |
| Authors |
Alvarez-Castillo, E; Bengoechea, C; Guerrero, A |
| Title |
Strengthening of Porcine Plasma Protein Superabsorbent Materials through a Solubilization-Freeze-Drying Process |
| Year |
2021 |
| Published |
Polymers, 13.0, 5 |
| Abstract |
The replacement of common acrylic derivatives by biodegradable materials in the formulation of superabsorbent materials would lessen the associated environmental impact. Moreover, the use of by-products or biowastes from the food industry that are usually discarded would promote a desired circular economy. The present study deals with the development of superabsorbent materials based on a by-product from the meat industry, namely plasma protein, focusing on the effects of a freeze-drying stage before blending with glycerol and eventual injection molding. More specifically, this freeze-drying stage is carried out either directly on the protein flour or after its solubilization in deionized water (10% w/w). Superabsorbent materials obtained after this solubilization-freeze-drying process display higher Young's modulus and tensile strength values, without affecting their water uptake capacity. As greater water uptake is commonly related to poorer mechanical properties, the proposed solubilization-freeze-drying process is a useful strategy for producing strengthened hydrophilic materials. |
| PDF |
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/13/5/772/pdf
|
