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Keywords = monolayer moisture content

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23 pages, 5112 KB  
Article
Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan-Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate Bilayer Films with Dual Surfaces: Improved Physicochemical Properties and Antimicrobial Properties
by Shaocheng Xu, Lei Zhong, Dongyang Jiang, Fuqi Wu, Wing Cheung Law, Chak Yin Tang and Fengwei Xie
Polymers 2026, 18(12), 1463; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18121463 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 173
Abstract
In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) were used as the base materials, and ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE) as the antibacterial agent to prepare biodegradable bilayer composite films (P/C-L), whose properties compared with those of the monolayer films (P-C-L) of identical [...] Read more.
In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) were used as the base materials, and ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE) as the antibacterial agent to prepare biodegradable bilayer composite films (P/C-L), whose properties compared with those of the monolayer films (P-C-L) of identical composition. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results revealed that the P/C-L films formed a compact microstructure with tight interlayer adhesion. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of intermolecular hydrogen bonds within the P/C-L films without the formation of new chemical bonds, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicates that the crystallinity of the P/C-L films was dominated by that of PVA. P/C-L films exhibited a dual-surface structure with a hydrophobic CS layer and a hydrophilic PVA layer, broadening their potential application range. The P/C-L films demonstrated superior water resistance and light transmittance to the P-C-L films. When the LAE content increased from 0% to 10%, the P/C-L films displayed a more stable range of variation concerning visible light transmittance, water contact angle (CS layers), and moisture absorption than that of the P-C-L films, with the corresponding changing values being 86.86% to 62.09%, 96.79°to 72.46°, and 8.35% to 19.78%, respectively. Regarding antibacterial properties, the P/C-L films exhibited significantly enhanced activity across all LAE concentrations. Notably, P/C-L films at 2% LAE already outperformed P-C-L films at 4% LAE. At an LAE content of 10%, the inhibition zone diameters of the P/C-L films against E. coli and S. aureus reached 39.42 mm and 42.15 mm, which were 12.71 mm and 13.10 mm larger than those of the P-C-L films, corresponding to increases of 47.58% and 45.09%, respectively. In addition, both the P/C-L bilayer films and the P-C-L films could achieve complete biodegradation within 30 days under laboratory soil burial conditions. These findings suggest that P/C-L films show advantageous overall characteristics, highlighting their strong potential in the field of sustainable active food packaging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
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16 pages, 1072 KB  
Article
Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and Sorption Behavior of Bulgarian Quince Powder (Cydonia oblonga Mill.)
by Adelina Bogoeva, Albena Durakova, Zhivka Goranova and Hristo Kalaydzhiev
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3723; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083723 - 10 Apr 2026
Viewed by 480
Abstract
(1) Background: Exploring regional foods can help consumers expand their options for consuming diverse food products in various forms. This could enhance human health in local populations. (2) Methods: The present study evaluated the physicochemical composition of quince powder using standard analytical methods. [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Exploring regional foods can help consumers expand their options for consuming diverse food products in various forms. This could enhance human health in local populations. (2) Methods: The present study evaluated the physicochemical composition of quince powder using standard analytical methods. Color parameters were determined using a PCE-CSM colorimeter equipped with a xenon lamp; the antioxidant activity via DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and CUPRAC methods; the sorption capacity (at 10 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C and aw from 0.1 to 0.9) through the static gravimetric method; and monolayer moisture content (MMC) with the BET model. The isotherms were fitted via modified Chung–Pfost, Halsey, Henderson and Oswin models. (3) Results: The approximate physico-chemical composition of laboratory-produced quince powder (dried at 45 °C for 10 h) was: proteins—1.27 g, carbohydrates—75.80 g, fats—0.49 g, fibers—21.50 g, ash—2.31 g, and nutritional value—355.65 kcal. The color analysis indicated limited non-enzymatic browning. Antioxidant activity was confirmed by all four methods. The three-parametric Halsey model is recommended to describe the representative S-shaped isotherms from type II. The MMC for the adsorption process ranged from 14.41% d.b. to 7.09% d.b., and for the desorption process, it ranged from 13.11% d.b. to 7.80% d.b.; (4) Conclusions: This study presents a quince powder as a convenient form for both storage and consumption, emphasizing its value as a rich source of bioactive compounds and its suitability for home production and regular inclusion in a healthy daily diet. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Research of Novel Food Products)
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27 pages, 6721 KB  
Article
Seven-Parameter Polynomial Fits Better to the Moisture Sorption Isotherms of Oil-Type Peony Seeds and Cake
by Xingjun Li, Bing Dai, Chang Liu and Qingyan Shu
Foods 2026, 15(8), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15081298 - 9 Apr 2026
Viewed by 385
Abstract
As an emerging oilseed crop in China, peony seed oils account for 0.41% of the annual production of Chinese edible vegetable oils, and the oil-type peony seed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Moisture content and temperature are key factors in the storage [...] Read more.
As an emerging oilseed crop in China, peony seed oils account for 0.41% of the annual production of Chinese edible vegetable oils, and the oil-type peony seed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Moisture content and temperature are key factors in the storage of oilseeds. In this study, the adsorption and desorption isotherms of ten species of peony seeds and one species of cake were determined in the range of 20–30 °C and 10–90% equilibrium relative humidity (ERH). The adsorption and desorption isotherms of peony seeds and cake were type II (sigmoidal) or type III curves. Nine equilibrium moisture content (EMC) equations were used to fit the isotherms of peony samples, with the optimal equations being our developed 7-parameter polynomial (Poly), modified Halsey equation (MHAE), and modified Oswin equation (MOE). For Poly, the fitting parameter determination coefficient (R2) was 0.9816–0.9986, and the mean relative error (MRE) was 0.83–6.52%; for MHAE, R2 was 0.7815–0.9973, and MRE was 4.18–17.84%. Poly contains the terms of temperature and ERH interaction; therefore, Poly could analyze the safe moisture content of peony seeds and cake during storage and transportation, and the three-parameter reversible MHAE could be used for calculating the sorption isosteric heats. The adsorption monolayer moisture content (M0) in peony seeds and cake estimated by MGAB were 3.64 ± 0.42% and 4.28%, respectively, while their desorption M0 values, respectively, were 6.21 ± 0.47% and 4.83%. At ERH ≤ 65%, for preventing the growth of storage pests and fungi, the absolutely safe storage moisture content (MC) predicted by Poly at 25 °C and 65% ERH was 12.48% wet basis (w.b.) for seeds and 11.92% for cake. The heat of sorption of peony seeds and cake approached that of pure water at about 11% and 15% w.b. MC estimated by the MHAE model, respectively. Microstructure analysis showed that the rich liposomes in peony seeds were attached to the inner surface of the cell wall and the outer surface of the protein storage vacuole, and the rich protein bodies and hydrophilic polysaccharides explained why the safe storage moisture for yellow peony seeds was higher than for Ziyan Feishuang seeds. This study provides the basic data for drying simulation, and the safe storage and transportation of peony seed and cake products. Full article
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28 pages, 1016 KB  
Article
Sustainable Alternatives in Multilayer Packaging: Storage Stability of Pudding Powder Under Accelerated Storage Conditions
by Can Türksever, Banu Koç and Ozlem Kizilirmak Esmer
Foods 2025, 14(22), 3806; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14223806 - 7 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3196
Abstract
Multilayer packaging materials are extensively used in food packaging, particularly for powdered products. In alignment with sustainable development goals, packaging design should aim to minimize material usage while maintaining the protective properties necessary to preserve food quality and safety, thereby reducing environmental impact. [...] Read more.
Multilayer packaging materials are extensively used in food packaging, particularly for powdered products. In alignment with sustainable development goals, packaging design should aim to minimize material usage while maintaining the protective properties necessary to preserve food quality and safety, thereby reducing environmental impact. A key strategy is to simplify multilayer structures to enhance recyclability. This study aims to evaluate the potential of sustainable alternative packaging materials with reduced metal and plastic content and improved recyclability for pudding powder packaging, as substitutes for conventional films. Four packaging structures were tested: a conventional three-layer laminate (polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/aluminum foil (Al-foil)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE)), two two-layer structures (AlOx-coated PET/LDPE and Al-coated PET/LDPE), and a monolayer metallized biaxially oriented polypropylene (MetBOPP). Samples were stored under accelerated conditions (38 °C and 90% relative humidity) for 180 days, and changes in moisture content, water activity, caking degree, glass transition temperature, color, and sensory attributes were monitored. The experimental data were examined for their agreement with various sorption models by creating adsorption isotherms. The acceptable storage period was estimated using the constants calculated from these models. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among the packaging types, primarily associated with their water vapor permeability, affecting moisture content, water activity, caking degree, and color stability. In terms of moisture content, water activity, and caking degree, the conventional PET/Al-foil/LDPE (Polyethylene terephthalate/Aluminum foil/Low density polyethylene) structure demonstrated the best performance, followed by PET.AlOx/LDPE (AlOx-coated Polyethylene terephthalate/Low density polyethylene), MPET/LDPE (Metallized polyethylene terephthalate/Low density polyethylene), and MBOPP (Metallized biaxially oriented polypropylene), respectively. The sensory analysis scores followed the same ranking; however, all samples maintained scores above the threshold value of 3 throughout the storage period, indicating that they remained acceptable. Caking degree increased moderately (from 0.61% to 0.89%) and was negatively correlated with appearance scores (R2 = −0.89, p < 0.01). Despite slight darkening (Browning Index increased from 18.16 to 20.37), sensory scores for appearance, odor, and taste remained above the acceptable threshold (score > 3.0). Based on the WVTR values of the packaging materials and the application of the GAB model, the estimated shelf lives were 800.32 days for PET/Al-foil/LDPE, 577.92 days for PET.AlOx/LDPE, 407.58 days for MPET/LDPE, and 229.26 days for MBOPP. In conclusion, the longest shelf life was achieved with PET/Al-foil/LDPE, and it was observed that as the WVTR of the packaging materials increased, the shelf life of the cocoa-based pudding powder decreased; PET.AlOx/LDPE and MPET/LDPE could be considered for medium-term storage (up to about 1–1.5 years), while MBOPP appeared suitable only for shorter durations (6–8 months). Full article
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25 pages, 3863 KB  
Article
Impact of Three-Fluid Nozzle Emulsification on the Physicochemical and Thermodynamic Properties of Avocado Oil Microcapsules Obtained by Spray Drying
by Anahí Hernández-Marañón, Enrique Flores-Andrade, Jorge Yáñez-Fernández, M. Teresa Carvajal, Luz Alicia Pascual-Pineda, Liliana Alamilla-Beltrán, Humberto Hernández-Sánchez and Gustavo F. Gutiérrez-López
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(21), 11798; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152111798 - 5 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1158
Abstract
This study investigated the production and characterization of avocado oil emulsions generated with a three-fluid nozzle (3FN) and the physicochemical and thermodynamic properties of the resulting microcapsules obtained by spray drying. The emulsions showed a bimodal size distribution with a main peak at [...] Read more.
This study investigated the production and characterization of avocado oil emulsions generated with a three-fluid nozzle (3FN) and the physicochemical and thermodynamic properties of the resulting microcapsules obtained by spray drying. The emulsions showed a bimodal size distribution with a main peak at 0.893 µm and PDI values below 0.70 indicate a mid-range polydispersity. Despite their shear-thinning behavior, emulsions exhibited limited stability, as indicated by ζ-potential (−23.9 mV) and increasing TSI values. Spray drying with 3FN achieved a yield of 71.7% and an encapsulation efficiency of 57.8%, with moisture content below 4%, meeting commercial requirements. The microcapsules displayed unimodal particle distributions (D[3,2] = 8.38 µm; D[4,3] = 11.14 µm) and irregular spherical morphologies with surface folds and roughness. Adsorption isotherms followed a type II pattern, well described by the GAB model, with monolayer moisture content (0.043–0.060 g H2O/g solids) defining critical stability conditions. Thermodynamic analyses identified a “minimum entropy zone” corresponding to enhanced structural stability, while glass transition data confirmed that encapsulated oil did not act as a plasticizer. Overall, the use of a three-fluid nozzle enabled the development of avocado oil microcapsules with favorable physical and thermal attributes, supporting their potential for long-term stability in functional food applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies for Food Packaging and Preservation)
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24 pages, 2872 KB  
Article
Moisture Sorption Isotherms of Fructooligosaccharide and Inulin Powders and Their Gelling Competence in Delaying the Retrogradation of Rice Starch
by Bing Dai, Ruijun Chen, Zheng Wei, Jianzhang Wu and Xingjun Li
Gels 2025, 11(10), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11100817 - 12 Oct 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1545
Abstract
The accurate determination of the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of gel-related powdery samples requires strictly controlled conditions and a long time period. In this study, the adsorption and desorption isotherms of two fructooligosaccharide (FOS) powders and three inulin powders were determined using a [...] Read more.
The accurate determination of the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of gel-related powdery samples requires strictly controlled conditions and a long time period. In this study, the adsorption and desorption isotherms of two fructooligosaccharide (FOS) powders and three inulin powders were determined using a dynamic moisture sorption analyzer at 0.1–0.9 water activity (aw) and 20–35 °C, respectively. The adsorption and desorption isotherms all exhibited type IIa sigmoidal curves; the desorptive isotherm was smooth, the FOS adsorption curves had three inflection points, and the inulin adsorption curves had five inflection points. Large hysteresis between the adsorption and desorption isotherms occurred at 0.1–0.7 aw for FOS and 0.1–0.6 aw for inulin. Seven equations, Boquet, Ferro–Fontan, Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer (GAB), Generalized D’Arcy and Watt (GDW), modified GAB (MGAB), Peleg, and our developed Polynomial, were found to fit the isotherms of the FOS and inulin samples; for adsorption, the best equations were Ferro–Fontan and GDW, and for desorption, the best equations were Polynomial and MGAB. The GDW and MGAB equations could not distinguish the effect of temperature on the isotherms, while the Polynomial equation could. The mean adsorptive monolayer moisture content (M0) values in FOS and inulin samples were predicted as 7.29% and 7.94% wet basis, respectively. The heat of moisture sorption of FOS and inulin approached that of pure water at about 32.5% and 22.5% wet basis (w.b.) moisture content (MC), respectively. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) showed that the peaks in inulin with absorbance values above 0.52 and in FOS with absorbance values above 0.35 were at 1020, 1084, and 337 cm−1; these could represent the amorphous structure (primary alcohol C-OH), C-O group, and hydroxyl functional group, respectively. Microscopic structure analysis showed that inulin powder particles were more round-shaped and adhered together, resulting in hygroscopic and sticky characteristics, with a maximum equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of 34% w.b. In contrast, the FOS powders exhibited irregular amorphous particles and a maximum EMC of 60% w.b. As hydrogels, 3–10% FOS or inulin addition reduced the peak, trough, final, breakdown, and setback viscosities of rice starch pasting, but increased the peak time and pasting temperature. FOS addition gave stronger reduction in the setback viscosity and in amylose retrogradation of rice starch pasting than inulin addition. The differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) showed 3–10% FOS addition reduced the amylopectin aging of retrograded paste of rice starch, but 5–7% inulin addition tended to reduce. These results suggest that FOS and inulin have strong hygroscopic properties and can be used to maintain the freshness of starch-based foods. These data can be used for drying, storage, and functional food design of FOS and inulin products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modification of Gels in Creating New Food Products (2nd Edition))
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17 pages, 4203 KB  
Article
Degradation and Disintegration Behavior of PHBV- and PLA-Based Films Under Composting Conditions
by Pavlo Lyshtva, Argo Kuusik and Viktoria Voronova
Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8657; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198657 - 26 Sep 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2562
Abstract
This study investigated the degradation and disintegration behavior of novel biobased multilayered films composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) during controlled composting tests performed at the laboratory scale. The compostability of monolayer PLA and PHBV films, hot-pressed bilayers, and coextruded multilayer [...] Read more.
This study investigated the degradation and disintegration behavior of novel biobased multilayered films composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) during controlled composting tests performed at the laboratory scale. The compostability of monolayer PLA and PHBV films, hot-pressed bilayers, and coextruded multilayer films produced in industrial or semi-industrial settings was systematically evaluated. Materials supplied by Fraunhofer LBF (Darmstadt, Germany) were tested as specified by the EVS-EN standard ISO 14855-1:2012 and EVS-EN ISO 20200:2016 standards. Composting took place in sealed, aerated vessels at 58 ± 2 °C with 50 ± 5% moisture and >6% oxygen. Biodegradation was measured via CO2 evolution, and disintegration was assessed visually and physically. PLA-1OLA films achieved 98.59% biodegradation and 91.13% disintegration. PHBV-5OLA and multilayer PLA-1OLA/PHBV-5OLA films showed biodegradation rates of 85.49% and 73.14%, with disintegration degrees of 89.93% and 79.18%, respectively. However, modified multilayer structures displayed slightly reduced compostability compared with pure compounds, likely due to the influence of additional components. To meet the 90% biodegradability threshold required by EVS-EN 13432:2003, increasing the PLA-1OLA content is recommended. This study introduces a novel combination of biobased polymers and plasticizers in multilayer formats, offering a deeper understanding of structure–property–degradation relationships. Its significance lies in advancing the design of sustainable packaging materials that balance functionality with environmental compatibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Materials)
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24 pages, 8559 KB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Wheat Flour Byproduct and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) Biodegradable Films Enriched with Rosemary Extract via Blown Extrusion
by Bianca Peron-Schlosser, Fabíola Azanha de Carvalho, Luana Cristina Paludo, Rodolfo Mesquita de Oliveira, Luis Alberto Gallo-García, Bruno Matheus Simões, Samuel Camilo da Silva, Bruno Alexandro Bewzenko Cordova, Benjamim de Melo Carvalho, Fabio Yamashita and Michele Rigon Spier
Coatings 2025, 15(7), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15070743 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1406
Abstract
Developing sustainable packaging materials has become a global priority in response to environmental concerns associated with conventional plastics. This study used a wheat flour byproduct (glue flour, GF) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) to produce films via blown extrusion, incorporating rosemary extract (RE) at [...] Read more.
Developing sustainable packaging materials has become a global priority in response to environmental concerns associated with conventional plastics. This study used a wheat flour byproduct (glue flour, GF) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) to produce films via blown extrusion, incorporating rosemary extract (RE) at 2% (FRE2) and 4% (FRE4) (w/w). A control film (FCO) was formulated without RE. The physicochemical, thermal, mechanical, and biodegradation properties of the films were evaluated. FCO, FRE2, and FRE4 exhibited tensile strength (TS) values between 8.16 and 9.29 MPa and elongation at break (ELO) above 889%. Incorporating 4% RE decreased luminosity (91.38 to 80.89) and increased opacity (41.14 to 50.95%). A thermogravimetric analysis revealed a main degradation stage between 200 °C and 450 °C, with FRE2 showing the highest residual mass (~15% at 600 °C). Sorption isotherms indicated enhanced hydrophobicity with RE, thereby reducing the monolayer moisture content from 5.23% to 3.03%. Biodegradation tests revealed mass losses of 64%, 58%, and 66% for FCO, FRE2, and FRE4, respectively, after 180 days. These findings demonstrate that incorporating RE into GF/PBAT blends via blown extrusion is a promising strategy for developing biodegradable films with enhanced thermal behavior, mechanical integrity, and water resistance, contributing to the advancement of sustainable packaging materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Thin Films: Preparation, Application and Development)
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19 pages, 3572 KB  
Article
The Effect of Cellulose Nanocrystals on the Molecular Organization, Thermomechanical, and Shape Memory Properties of Gelatin-Matrix Composite Films
by Cristina Padilla, Marzena Pępczyńska, Cristian Vizueta, Franck Quero, Paulo Díaz-Calderón, William Macnaughtan, Tim Foster and Javier Enrione
Gels 2024, 10(12), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10120766 - 25 Nov 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2955
Abstract
Gelatin is a natural hydrocolloid with excellent film-forming properties, high processability, and tremendous potential in the field of edible coatings and food packaging. However, its reinforcing by materials such as cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) is often necessary to improve its mechanical behavior, including shape [...] Read more.
Gelatin is a natural hydrocolloid with excellent film-forming properties, high processability, and tremendous potential in the field of edible coatings and food packaging. However, its reinforcing by materials such as cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) is often necessary to improve its mechanical behavior, including shape memory properties. Since the interaction between these polymers is complex and its mechanism still remains unclear, this work aimed to study the effect of low concentrations of CNC (2, 6, and 10 weight%) on the molecular organization, thermomechanical, and shape memory properties in mammalian gelatin-based composite films at low moisture content (~10 weight% dry base). The results showed that the presence of CNCs (with type I and type II crystals) interfered with the formation of the gelatin triple helix, with a decrease from 21.7% crystallinity to 12% in samples with 10% CNC but increasing the overall crystallinity (from 21.7% to 22.6% in samples with 10% CNC), which produced a decrease in the water monolayer in the composites. These changes in crystallinity also impacted significantly their mechanical properties, with higher E’ values (from 1 × 104 to 1.3 × 104 Pa at 20 °C) and improved thermal stability at higher CNC content. Additionally, the evaluation of their shape memory properties indicated that while molecular interactions between the two components occur, CNCs negatively impacted the magnitude and kinetics of the shape recovery of the composites (more particularly at 10 weight% CNC, reducing shape recovery from 90% to 70%) by reducing the netting point associated with the lower crystallinity of the gelatin. We believe that our results contribute in elucidating the interactions of gelatin–CNC composites at various structural levels and highlights that even though CNC acts as a reinforcement material on gelatin matrices, their interaction are complex and do not imply synergism in their properties. Further investigation is, however, needed to understand CNC–gelatin interfacial interactions with the aim of modulating their interactions depending on their desired application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Development of Gelatin-Based Materials)
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18 pages, 5760 KB  
Article
Efficient Removal of Tetracycline from Water by One-Step Pyrolytic Porous Biochar Derived from Antibiotic Fermentation Residue
by Xinyu Zhao, Guokai Zhu, Jiangtao Liu, Jieni Wang, Shuqin Zhang, Chenlin Wei, Leichang Cao, Shuguang Zhao and Shicheng Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(17), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14171377 - 23 Aug 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2452
Abstract
The disposal and treatment of antibiotic residues is a recognized challenge due to the huge production, high moisture content, high processing costs, and residual antibiotics, which caused environmental pollution. Antibiotic residues contained valuable components and could be recycled. Using a one-step controllable pyrolysis [...] Read more.
The disposal and treatment of antibiotic residues is a recognized challenge due to the huge production, high moisture content, high processing costs, and residual antibiotics, which caused environmental pollution. Antibiotic residues contained valuable components and could be recycled. Using a one-step controllable pyrolysis technique in a tubular furnace, biochar (OSOBs) was produced without the preliminary carbonization step, which was innovative and time- and cost-saving compared to traditional methods. The main aim of this study was to explore the adsorption and removal efficiency of tetracycline (TC) in water using porous biochar prepared from oxytetracycline fermentation residues in one step. A series of characterizations were conducted on the prepared biochar materials, and the effects of biochar dosage, initial tetracycline concentration, reaction time, and reaction temperature on the adsorption capacity were studied. The experimental results showed that at 298 K, the maximum adsorption capacity of OSOB-3-700 calculated by the Langmuir model reached 1096.871 mg/g. The adsorption kinetics fitting results indicated that the adsorption of tetracycline on biochar was more consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, which was a chemical adsorption. The adsorption isotherm fitting results showed that the Langmuir model better described the adsorption process of tetracycline on biochar, indicating that tetracycline was adsorbed in a monolayer on specific homogeneous active sites through chemical adsorption, consistent with the kinetic conclusions. The adsorption process occurred on the surface of the biochar containing rich active sites, and the chemical actions such as electron exchange promoted the adsorption process. Full article
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27 pages, 10110 KB  
Article
Sustainable Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) Biochar for the Sorptive Removal of Acid Orange 7 (AO7) from Water
by Anand Kumar Yadav, Abhishek Kumar Chaubey, Shivang Kapoor, Tej Pratap, Brahmacharimayum Preetiva, Vineet Vimal and Dinesh Mohan
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1115; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061115 - 28 May 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5122
Abstract
The unregulated discharge of synthetic dyes from various anthropogenic and industrial activities has resulted in the contamination of different environmental compartments. These dyes can contaminate water bodies, soil, and even the air, resulting in many environmental and health issues. True colors may persist [...] Read more.
The unregulated discharge of synthetic dyes from various anthropogenic and industrial activities has resulted in the contamination of different environmental compartments. These dyes can contaminate water bodies, soil, and even the air, resulting in many environmental and health issues. True colors may persist for long periods, thereby affecting the aesthetics and ecology of dye-contaminated areas. Furthermore, they pose potential risks to aquatic life and human health through the ingestion or absorption of dye-contaminated water or food. Acid orange 7 (AO7) is a synthetic azo dye used in the textile, tanning, food, pharmaceutical, paint, electronics, cosmetics, and paper and pulp industries. AO7 can have various human health implications, such as dermatitis, nausea, severe headache, respiratory tract irritation, and bone marrow depletion, due to its high toxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Efforts to regulate and mitigate dye pollution (AO7) are crucial for environmental sustainability and public health. Therefore, this study aimed to remove AO7 from water using sustainable biochar. This objective was accomplished by pyrolyzing dried Napier grass at 700 °C to develop affordable and sustainable Napier grass biochar (NGBC700). The developed biochar was characterized for its surface morphology, surface functional groups, surface area, and elemental composition. The yield, moisture content, and ash content of the NGBC700 were approximately 31%, 6%, and 21%, respectively. The NGBC700’s BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) surface area was 108 m2 g−1. Batch sorption studies were carried out at different pH levels (2–10), biochar dosages (1, 2, 3, and 4 g L−1), and AO7 concentrations (10, 20, and 30 mg L−1). The kinetic data were better fitted to the pseudo-second-order (PSO) equation (R2 = 0.964–0.997) than the pseudo-first-order (PFO) equation (R2 = 0.789–0.988). The Freundlich isotherm equation (R2 = 0.965–0.994) fitted the sorption equilibrium data better than the Langmuir equation (R2 = 0.788–0.987), suggesting AO7 sorption on heterogenous NGBC700. The maximum monolayer AO7 adsorption capacities of the NGBC700 were 14.3, 12.7, and 8.4 mg g−1 at 10, 25, and 40 °C, respectively. The column AO7 sorption capacity was 4.4 mg g−1. Fixed-bed AO7 sorption data were fitted to the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson column models. The NGBC700 efficiently removed AO7 from locally available dye-laden wastewater. NGBC700 was regenerated using different NaOH concentrations. Possible interactions contributing to AO7 sorption on NGBC700 include hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and π–π electron donor–acceptor attractions. The estimated total preparation cost of NGBC700 was US$ 6.02 kg−1. The developed sustainable NGBC700 is potentially cost-effective and environmentally friendly, and it utilizes waste (Napier grass) to eliminate fatal AO7 dye from aqueous media. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biochar in Environmental Research)
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23 pages, 5523 KB  
Article
Encapsulation of W/O/W Acerola Emulsion by Spray Drying: Optimization, Release Kinetics, and Storage Stability
by Yen Thi Dang, Hieu Tran and Tuyen Chan Kha
Foods 2024, 13(10), 1463; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13101463 - 9 May 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4259
Abstract
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a sub-tropical and tropical fruit renowned for its high levels of vitamin C and phenolic compounds, which offer health benefits. This study aimed to optimize the spray drying process by determining the inlet and outlet temperatures using [...] Read more.
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a sub-tropical and tropical fruit renowned for its high levels of vitamin C and phenolic compounds, which offer health benefits. This study aimed to optimize the spray drying process by determining the inlet and outlet temperatures using response surface methodology (RSM) with the central composite design. Additionally, it aimed to evaluate the release kinetics in the hydrophilic food simulation environment and the stability of the resulting powder under various storage temperatures. The RSM method determined the optimal inlet and outlet temperatures as 157 °C and 91 °C, respectively. High-accuracy prediction equations (R2 ≥ 0.88) were developed for moisture content (3.02%), process yield (91.15%), and the encapsulation yield of total polyphenol content (61.44%), total flavonoid content (37.42%), and vitamin C (27.19%), with a predicted monolayer moisture content below 4.01%, according to the BET equation. The powder exhibited good dissolution characteristics in the acidic hydrophilic food simulation environment and showed greater stability when stored at 10 °C for 30 days, compared to storage at 35 °C and 45 °C. Full article
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11 pages, 2015 KB  
Article
Effect of Heat Treatment on Hygroscopicity of Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) Wood
by Yulei Gao, Zhu Li, Liyuan Zhao and Jianxiong Lyu
Forests 2024, 15(4), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040630 - 29 Mar 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1785
Abstract
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) is a widely planted species of plantation forest in China, and heat treatment can improve its dimensional stability defects and improve its performance. The wood samples were heat-treated at various temperatures (160, 180, 200, and 220 [...] Read more.
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata [Lamb.] Hook.) is a widely planted species of plantation forest in China, and heat treatment can improve its dimensional stability defects and improve its performance. The wood samples were heat-treated at various temperatures (160, 180, 200, and 220 °C) for 2 h. To clarify the effect of heat treatment on wood hygroscopicity, the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) was measured, the moisture adsorption and desorption rates were determined, the hygroscopic hysteresis was examined, and the Guggenheim, Anderson, and de Boer (GAB) model was fitted to the experimental data. The moisture absorption isotherms of all samples belonged to the Type II adsorption isotherm, but the shape of the desorption isotherm was more linear for heat-treated wood samples, especially when the heat treatment temperature was higher. According to the results analyzed with ANOVA, there were significant differences in equilibrium moisture content between the control samples and the heat-treated samples under the conditions of 30%, 60%, and 95% relative humidity (RH, p < 0.05), and the results of multiple comparisons were similar. The decrease in hygroscopicity was more pronounced in wood treated at higher temperatures. The EMC of the 160–220 °C heat-treated samples of the control samples was 14.00%, 22.37%, 28.95%, and 39.63% lower than that of the control sample at 95% RH. Under low RH conditions (30%), water is taken up mainly via monolayer sorption, and multilayer sorption gradually predominates over monolayer sorption with the increase in RH. The dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) analysis indicated that the heat-treated wood revealed an increase in isotherm hysteresis, which was due to the change in cell wall chemical components and microstructure caused by heat treatment. In addition, the effective specific surface area of wood samples decreased significantly after heat treatment, and the change trend was similar to that of equilibrium moisture content. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wood Science and Forest Products)
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15 pages, 2776 KB  
Article
Moisture Sorption Behavior of Deproteinized Sunflower Meal and Patterned Food Extrudate
by Mariya A. Dushkova, Apostol T. Simitchiev, Hristo R. Kalaydzhiev, Petya Ivanova, Nikolay D. Menkov and Vesela I. Chalova
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14010065 - 20 Dec 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2345
Abstract
This research was undertaken to evaluate the influence of the extrusion process on the sorption behavior of deproteinized sunflower meal (DSM). A patterned food extrudate (PFE), prepared from a mixture of DSM and corn grits (1:1), was obtained, and the equilibrium isotherms of [...] Read more.
This research was undertaken to evaluate the influence of the extrusion process on the sorption behavior of deproteinized sunflower meal (DSM). A patterned food extrudate (PFE), prepared from a mixture of DSM and corn grits (1:1), was obtained, and the equilibrium isotherms of both products (DSM and PFE) were determined at three temperatures (20 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C) by the static gravimetric method. The comparison of the sorption behavior of the products showed that extrusion decreased the equilibrium moisture content and the monolayer moisture, while the hysteresis effect was significantly raised in size and span. The experimental sorption isotherms were fitted by five modified models including the temperature effect: Chung–Pfost, Halsey, Oswin, Henderson, and GAB. The modified models of Oswin were established to be suitable to describe the equilibrium sorption isotherms in the temperature range from 20 °C to 40 °C. The net isosteric heat of sorption of DSM and PFE decreases consistently with the increase in moisture content. Extrusion reduces the bond energy between the solid matrix and the water molecules. The ranges of moisture content and relative humidities in the temperature interval studied, appropriate for long-term storage of DSM and PFE, were predicted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Science and Technology)
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13 pages, 488 KB  
Article
Effect of Germinated Sorghum Extract on the Physical and Thermal Properties of Pre-Gelatinized Cereals, Sweet Potato and Beans Starches
by Hesham Alqah, Shahzad Hussain, Mohamed Saleh Alamri, Abdellatif A. Mohamed, Akram A. Qasem, Mohamed A. Ibraheem and Aamir Shehzad
Molecules 2023, 28(20), 7030; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207030 - 11 Oct 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2070
Abstract
Starches from different botanical sources are affected in the presence of enzymes. This study investigated the impact of α-amylase on several properties of pre-gelatinized starches derived from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), white [...] Read more.
Starches from different botanical sources are affected in the presence of enzymes. This study investigated the impact of α-amylase on several properties of pre-gelatinized starches derived from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), white beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), and sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L.). Specifically, the water holding capacity, freezable water content, sugar content, and water sorption isotherm (adsorption and desorption) properties were examined. The source of α-amylase utilized in this study was a germinated sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) extract (GSE). The starch samples were subjected to annealing at temperatures of 40, 50, and 60 °C for durations of either 30 or 60 min prior to the process of gelatinization. A significant increase in the annealing temperature and GSE resulted in a notable enhancement in both the water-holding capacity and the sugar content of the starch. The ordering of starches in terms of their freezable water content is as follows: Chickpea starch (C.P.S) > white beans starch (W.B.S) > wheat starch (W.S) > chickpea starch (C.S) > sweet potato starch (S.P.S). The Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model was only employed for fitting the data, as the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) model had a low root mean square error (RMSE). The application of annealing and GSE treatment resulted in a shift of the adsorption and desorption isotherms towards greater levels of moisture content. A strong hysteresis was found in the adsorption and desorption curves, notably within the water activity range of 0.6 to 0.8. The GSE treatment and longer annealing time had an impact on the monolayer water content (mo), as well as the C and K parameters of the GAB model, irrespective of the annealing temperature. These results can be used to evaluate the applicability of starch in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Production and Properties of Starch—Current Research)
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