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Search Results (897)

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Keywords = nanocellulose

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15 pages, 3486 KiB  
Article
Standardizing the Production and Processing of Bacterial Nanocellulose to Produce Microparticles via a Spray-Dried Method with the Potential to Be Used in the Food Industry
by Hasbleidy Palacios-Hinestroza, Carlos Molina-Ramírez, María Camila López-Jaramillo, Julián Paul Martínez-Galán and Diego Mauricio Sánchez-Osorno
Polymers 2025, 17(16), 2193; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17162193 - 11 Aug 2025
Abstract
This article proposes a standard protocol to produce bacterial nanocellulose (Komagateibacter medellinensis). It will briefly review the main raw materials (common agro-industrial waste in tropical countries), process of obtaining bacterial nanocellulose membranes, and the cleaning process for said membranes. The processing [...] Read more.
This article proposes a standard protocol to produce bacterial nanocellulose (Komagateibacter medellinensis). It will briefly review the main raw materials (common agro-industrial waste in tropical countries), process of obtaining bacterial nanocellulose membranes, and the cleaning process for said membranes. The processing of the membranes using a grinder and Ultra-Turrax is then shown, listing the characteristics provided by each of these methods to produce bacterial nanocellulose microparticles by spray drying. The average microparticle size obtained by spray drying was (4.76 ± 1.12 µm), and thermal stability (maximum degradation temperature) was 345 °C. This research clearly states that the grinder was selected as the most efficient mechanical method due to its improved dispersion performance and lower clogging during spray drying. Finally, physical (scanning electron microscopy-SEM, transmission electron microscopy-TEM, and thermogravimetric analyzer-TGA) and microbiological (mesophiles, yeasts, fungi, and fecal coliforms) characterization is demonstrated. These microparticles are intended to be used in the food industry to produce functional and enriched foods, protecting the bioactive components of interest. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cellulose and Wood-Based Composites)
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18 pages, 3280 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Agrowaste-Based Nanocellulose by NaOH-Assisted Ball Milling Technique: Influence of Component Intervention
by Yuxi Wang, Yong Yu, Shuhan Hu, Jinyao Yu, Yue Huang and Hongjie Dai
Gels 2025, 11(8), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080631 - 11 Aug 2025
Abstract
Pineapple peel cellulose nanofibrils (PCNFs) were facilely prepared by the ball milling method assisted by alkali solution (3 wt% NaOH) and a wet grinding medium, using various treated pineapple peels (hot water treatment (WT), bleaching treatment (BT), alkaline treatment (AT), and baleaching–alkaline treatment [...] Read more.
Pineapple peel cellulose nanofibrils (PCNFs) were facilely prepared by the ball milling method assisted by alkali solution (3 wt% NaOH) and a wet grinding medium, using various treated pineapple peels (hot water treatment (WT), bleaching treatment (BT), alkaline treatment (AT), and baleaching–alkaline treatment (ABT)) as raw materials. The structure of the obtained PCNFs (i.e., WT-PCNF, BT-PCNF, AT-PCNF, and ABT-PCNF) was characterized to analyze the influence of component intervention. The results indicated that NaOH-assisted ball milling did not change the crystal structure of cellulose, and the yield and thermal stability of the PCNFs was improved. The average diameters of WT-PCNF, BT-PCNF, AT-PCNF, and ABT-PCNF were 24.16, 21.53, 23.04, and 19.46 nm, respectively, in which BT-PCNF and ABT-PCNF exhibited a higher defibrillating degree and smaller diameter. Particularly, NaOH-assisted ball milling can promote the removal of non-cellulose components. The viscosity and modulus of BT-PCNF were relatively higher due to the presence of residual hemicellulose as a natural linker of fibers. The current research provides insights for simplifying the preparation and functionalization of nanocellulose. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gel Applications)
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28 pages, 2611 KiB  
Article
Bioactive Properties of Chitosan/Nanocellulose Films Loaded with Sage Essential Oil: From In Vitro Study to In Situ Application in Shelf-Life Extension of Fresh Poultry Meat
by João R. A. Pires, Raquel Pereira, Sara Paz, Leandro A. Gomes, Victor G. L. Souza, Maria H. Godinho, Maria P. Duarte and Ana L. Fernando
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(8), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9080428 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 174
Abstract
The overuse of nonrenewable resources has motivated intensive research and the development of new types of green bio-based and degradable feedstocks derived from natural sources, such as cellulose derivates, also in nanoforms. The inclusion of such nanoparticles in bio-based polymers with the aim [...] Read more.
The overuse of nonrenewable resources has motivated intensive research and the development of new types of green bio-based and degradable feedstocks derived from natural sources, such as cellulose derivates, also in nanoforms. The inclusion of such nanoparticles in bio-based polymers with the aim of providing reinforcement is a trend, which, when associated with the incorporation active compounds, creates active packaging suitable for the packaging of highly perishable food, thus contributing to the product’s shelf-life extension. Chitosan (Ch)/sage essential oil (SEO) bionanocomposite reinforced with nanocrystalline cellulose (CNC) was cast as active packaging for the preservation of fresh poultry meat. Meat samples were wrapped in different bioplastics (pristine chitosan, chitosan with commercial CNC, chitosan with CNC obtained from three different lignocellulosic crops, giant reed (G), kenaf (K), and miscanthus (M), chitosan with SEO, and chitosan with SEO and CNC), while unwrapped samples were tested as the control. Periodically, samples were evaluated in terms of their physicochemical properties and microbial growth. Additionally, bionanocomposites were also evaluated in terms of their in situ antimicrobial properties, as well as migration toward food simulants. Meat samples protected with bionanocomposites showed lower levels of microbiological growth (2–3 logs lower than control) and lipid oxidation (20–30% lower than in control), over time. This was attributed to the intrinsic antimicrobial capacity of chitosan and the high oxygen barrier properties of the films resulting from the CNC inclusion. The SEO incorporation did not significantly improve the material’s antimicrobial and antioxidant activity yet interfered directly with the meat’s color as it migrated to its surface. In the in vitro assays, all bionanocomposites demonstrated good antimicrobial activity against B. cereus (reduction of ~8.2 log) and Salmonella Choleraesuis (reduction of ~5–6 log). Through the in vitro migration assay, it was verified that the SEO release rate of phenolic compounds to ethanol 50% (dairy products simulate) was higher than to ethanol 95% (fatty food simulate). Furthermore, these migration tests proved that nanocellulose was capable of delaying SEO migration, thus reducing the negative effect on the meat’s color and the pro-oxidant activity recorded in TBARS. It was concluded that the tested chitosan/nanocellulose bionanocomposites increased the shelf life of fresh poultry meat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biocomposites)
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13 pages, 3691 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Kinetic Effects of Nanofibrillated Cellulose on MMA Polymerization via Temperature Monitoring
by David Victoria-Valenzuela, Ana Beatriz Morales-Cepeda and Sergio Alejandro De La Garza-Tenorio
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2476; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082476 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) on the polymerization kinetics of methyl methacrylate (MMA) during in situ suspension polymerization at 70 °C (343.15 K). Four CNF concentrations were evaluated and compared to a reference system without CNFs. Polymerizations were carried [...] Read more.
This study investigates the influence of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) on the polymerization kinetics of methyl methacrylate (MMA) during in situ suspension polymerization at 70 °C (343.15 K). Four CNF concentrations were evaluated and compared to a reference system without CNFs. Polymerizations were carried out in a thermostatted flask immersed in an ethylene glycol bath and covered to ensure thermal stability. The temperature profiles of both the reaction medium and the surrounding bath were continuously recorded, allowing for the calculation of heat flow, polymerization rate (Rp), and monomer conversion. The incorporation of CNFs led to a significant increase in Rp and faster MMA conversion. This effect was attributed to the presence of nanocellulose within the polymerizing medium, which restricted diffusion and contributed to the onset of the phenomenon of autoacceleration. Additionally, CNFs promoted a higher total heat release, underscoring the need for thermal control during scale-up. The resulting material qualifies as a biocomposite, as biobased nanofibrils became integrated into the polymer matrix. These findings demonstrate that CNFs act as effective kinetic promoters in MMA polymerizations and may serve as functional additives to enhance both reaction performance and sustainability. However, safety considerations remain critical when transferring this approach to industrial processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymer Processing, Utilization and Applications)
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20 pages, 4467 KiB  
Review
Structuring the Future of Cultured Meat: Hybrid Gel-Based Scaffolds for Edibility and Functionality
by Sun Mi Zo, Ankur Sood, So Yeon Won, Soon Mo Choi and Sung Soo Han
Gels 2025, 11(8), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080610 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 239
Abstract
Cultured meat is emerging as a sustainable alternative to conventional animal agriculture, with scaffolds playing a central role in supporting cellular attachment, growth, and tissue maturation. This review focuses on the development of gel-based hybrid biomaterials that meet the dual requirements of biocompatibility [...] Read more.
Cultured meat is emerging as a sustainable alternative to conventional animal agriculture, with scaffolds playing a central role in supporting cellular attachment, growth, and tissue maturation. This review focuses on the development of gel-based hybrid biomaterials that meet the dual requirements of biocompatibility and food safety. We explore recent advances in the use of naturally derived gel-forming polymers such as gelatin, chitosan, cellulose, alginate, and plant-based proteins as the structural backbone for edible scaffolds. Particular attention is given to the integration of food-grade functional additives into hydrogel-based scaffolds. These include nanocellulose, dietary fibers, modified starches, polyphenols, and enzymatic crosslinkers such as transglutaminase, which enhance mechanical stability, rheological properties, and cell-guidance capabilities. Rather than focusing on fabrication methods or individual case studies, this review emphasizes the material-centric design strategies for building scalable, printable, and digestible gel scaffolds suitable for cultured meat production. By systemically evaluating the role of each component in structural reinforcement and biological interaction, this work provides a comprehensive frame work for designing next-generation edible scaffold systems. Nonetheless, the field continues to face challenges, including structural optimization, regulatory validation, and scale-up, which are critical for future implementation. Ultimately, hybrid gel-based scaffolds are positioned as a foundational technology for advancing the functionality, manufacturability, and consumer readiness of cultured meat products, distinguishing this work from previous reviews. Unlike previous reviews that have focused primarily on fabrication techniques or tissue engineering applications, this review provides a uniquely food-centric perspective by systematically evaluating the compositional design of hybrid hydrogel-based scaffolds with edibility, scalability, and consumer acceptance in mind. Through a comparative analysis of food-safe additives and naturally derived biopolymers, this review establishes a framework that bridges biomaterials science and food engineering to advance the practical realization of cultured meat products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Hydrocolloids and Hydrogels: Rheology and Texture Analysis)
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12 pages, 3641 KiB  
Article
Metallic Lanthanum (III) Hybrid Magnetic Nanocellulose Composites for Enhanced DNA Capture via Rare-Earth Coordination Chemistry
by Jiayao Yang, Jie Fei, Hongpeng Wang and Ye Li
Inorganics 2025, 13(8), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics13080257 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Lanthanide rare earth elements possess significant promise for material applications owing to their distinctive optical and magnetic characteristics, as well as their versatile coordination capabilities. This study introduced a lanthanide-functionalized magnetic nanocellulose composite (NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3) for effective phosphorus/nitrogen [...] Read more.
Lanthanide rare earth elements possess significant promise for material applications owing to their distinctive optical and magnetic characteristics, as well as their versatile coordination capabilities. This study introduced a lanthanide-functionalized magnetic nanocellulose composite (NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3) for effective phosphorus/nitrogen (P/N) ligand separation. The hybrid material employs the adaptable coordination geometry and strong affinity for oxygen of La3+ ions to show enhanced DNA-binding capacity via multi-site coordination with phosphate backbones and bases. This study utilized cellulose as a carrier, which was modified through carboxylation and amination processes employing deep eutectic solvents (DES) and polyethyleneimine. Magnetic nanoparticles and La(OH)3 were subsequently incorporated into the cellulose via in situ growth. NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3 showed a specific surface area of 36.2 m2·g−1 and a magnetic saturation intensity of 37 emu/g, facilitating the formation of ligands with accessible La3+ active sites, hence creating mesoporous interfaces that allow for fast separation. NNC@Fe3O4@La(OH)3 showed a significant affinity for DNA, with adsorption capacities reaching 243 mg/g, mostly due to the multistage coordination binding of La3+ to the phosphate groups and bases of DNA. Simultaneously, kinetic experiments indicated that the binding process adhered to a pseudo-secondary kinetic model, predominantly dependent on chemisorption. This study developed a unique rare-earth coordination-driven functional hybrid material, which is highly significant for constructing selective separation platforms for P/N-containing ligands. Full article
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18 pages, 4971 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Production of Bacterial Cellulose in a Rotary Disk Bioreactor: Grape Pomace as a Replacement for the Carbon Source
by Rodrigo Cáceres, Patricio Oyarzún, Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisca Cuevas, Kelly Torres, Elizabeth Elgueta, Irene Martínez and Dariela Núñez
Fermentation 2025, 11(8), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11080441 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 403
Abstract
Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a highly pure biopolymer with promising applications in the biomedical, food, and textile industries. However, the high production costs and low yields obtained in static conditions limit its scalability and industrial applications. This study addresses the sustainable production of [...] Read more.
Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a highly pure biopolymer with promising applications in the biomedical, food, and textile industries. However, the high production costs and low yields obtained in static conditions limit its scalability and industrial applications. This study addresses the sustainable production of BNC using a rotary disk bioreactor (RDB) and explores the use of grape pomace extract as an alternative carbon source for BNC production. Parameters such as the BNC production and biomass yield were evaluated using Komagataeibacter xylinus ATCC 53524 under different operational conditions (disk surface, rotation speed, and number of disks). The results showed that cellulose production increased using silicone-coated disks at 7–9 rpm (up to 2.72 g L−1), while higher yields (5.23 g L−1) were achieved when using grape pomace extract as the culture medium in comparison with conventional HS medium. FTIR and TGA characterizations confirmed that BNC obtained with grape pomace extract presents the same thermal and chemical characteristics than BNC produced with HS medium. This work provides insight into the feasibility of upscaling BNC production using a bioprocessing strategy, combining production in the RDB system and the use of an agro-industrial waste as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fermentation Process Design)
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12 pages, 1465 KiB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Emulsion-Templated Oleogels from Whey Protein and Spent Coffee Grounds Oil
by Aikaterini Papadaki, Ioanna Mandala and Nikolaos Kopsahelis
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2697; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152697 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 247
Abstract
This study aimed to develop novel oleogels using whey protein (WP) and bacterial cellulose nanowhiskers (BCNW) to expand the potential applications of spent coffee grounds oil (SCGO). An emulsion-templated approach was employed to structure SCGO with varying WP:SCGO ratios, while the incorporation of [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop novel oleogels using whey protein (WP) and bacterial cellulose nanowhiskers (BCNW) to expand the potential applications of spent coffee grounds oil (SCGO). An emulsion-templated approach was employed to structure SCGO with varying WP:SCGO ratios, while the incorporation of BCNW was evaluated as a potential stabilizing and reinforcing agent. All oleogels behaved as “true” gels (tan δ < 0.1). Rheological analysis revealed that higher WP content significantly increased gel strength, indicating enhanced structural integrity and deformation resistance. The addition of BCNW had a significant reinforcing effect in oleogels with a higher oil content (WP:SCGO 1:5), while its influence was less evident in formulations with lower oil content (WP:SCGO 1:2.5). Notably, depending on the WP:SCGO ratio, the storage modulus (G′) data showed that the oleogels resembled both hard (WP:SCGO 1:2.5) and soft (WP:SCGO 1:5) solid fats, highlighting their potential as fat replacers in a wide range of food applications. Consequently, this study presents a sustainable approach to structuring SCGO while tailoring its rheological behavior, aligning with global efforts to reduce food waste and develop sustainable food products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Physics and (Bio)Chemistry)
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16 pages, 3298 KiB  
Article
High-Performance Catalytic Oxygen Evolution with Nanocellulose-Derived Biocarbon and Fe/Zeolite/Carbon Nanotubes
by Javier Hernandez-Ortega, Chamak Ahmed, Andre Molina, Ronald C. Sabo, Lorena E. Sánchez Cadena, Bonifacio Alvarado Tenorio, Carlos R. Cabrera and Juan C. Noveron
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080719 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 419
Abstract
The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a central role as an anode in electrocatalytic processes such as energy conversion and storage and the generation of molecular oxygen from the electrolysis of water. Currently, precious metal oxides such as IrO2 and RuO2 [...] Read more.
The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a central role as an anode in electrocatalytic processes such as energy conversion and storage and the generation of molecular oxygen from the electrolysis of water. Currently, precious metal oxides such as IrO2 and RuO2 are recognized as reference OER electrocatalysts with reasonably high activity; however, their widespread use in practical devices has been severely hindered by their high cost and scarcity. It is essential to design alternative OER electrocatalysts made of low-cost and abundant earth elements with significant activity and robustness. We report four new nanocellulose-derived Fe–zeolite nanocomposites, namely Fe/Zeolite@CCNC (1), Fe/Zeolite@CCNF (2), Fe/Zeolite/CNT@CCNC (3), and Fe/Zeolite/CNT@CCNF (4). Two different types of nanocellulose were investigated: nanocellulose nanofibrils and nanocellulose nanocrystals. Characterization with TEM, SEM-EDS, PXRD, and XPS is reported. The nanocomposites exhibited electrocatalytic activity for OER that varies based on the origin of biocarbon and the composition content. The effect of adding carbon nanotubes to the nanocomposites was studied, and an improvement in OER catalysis was observed. The electrochemical double-layer capacitance and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of the nanocomposites are reported. The nanocomposite 3 exhibited the highest performance, with an onset potential value of 1.654 V and an overpotential of 551 mV, which exceeds the activity of RuO2 for OER catalysis at 10 mA/cm2 in the glassy carbon electrode. A 24 h chronoamperometry study revealed that the catalyst is active for ~2 h under continuous operating conditions. BET surface analysis showed that the crystalline nanocellulose-derived composite exhibited 301.47 m2/g, and the fibril nanocellulose-derived composite exhibited 120.39 m2/g, indicating that the increased nanoporosity of the former contributes to the increase in OER catalysis. Full article
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18 pages, 2377 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Adhesive Formulation and Performance Evaluation of Bacterial Nanocellulose and Aloe Vera for Packaging Applications
by Urška Vrabič-Brodnjak and Aljana Vidmar
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3136; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153136 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
The development of bio-based adhesives as sustainable alternatives to synthetic formulations presents a significant opportunity for advancing environmental sustainability in packaging applications. This research aimed to develop and evaluate a bio-based adhesive derived from bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), aloe vera and its mixtures as [...] Read more.
The development of bio-based adhesives as sustainable alternatives to synthetic formulations presents a significant opportunity for advancing environmental sustainability in packaging applications. This research aimed to develop and evaluate a bio-based adhesive derived from bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), aloe vera and its mixtures as a potential replacement for commercial synthetic adhesives. Aloe vera, selected for its polysaccharide-rich composition, served as a natural polymeric matrix, while BNC contributed reinforcing properties. The adhesive formulations, with and without BNC, were compared to a commercial adhesive to assess their mechanical performance. T-peel and shear tests were conducted on smooth and rough paper substrates to evaluate adhesive strength. The bio-based adhesive incorporating BNC demonstrated superior shear and peel strength on rough substrates due to enhanced mechanical interlocking within the fibrous structure of paper, whereas performance on smooth surfaces was hindered by uneven BNC distribution, reducing adhesive-substrate interaction. Although the commercial adhesive achieved higher absolute maximum force values, the bio-based formulation exhibited comparable mechanical stability under specific conditions. These findings underscore the influence of substrate properties and application methods on adhesive performance, highlighting the potential of bio-based adhesives in packaging applications and the need for further formulation optimization to fully realize their advantages over traditional synthetic adhesives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Based Polymers for Sustainable Future)
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17 pages, 1509 KiB  
Article
Nanocellulose Application for Metal Adsorption and Its Effect on Nanofiber Thermal Behavior
by Wanderson Ferreira Braz, Lucas Tonetti Teixeira, Rogério Navarro and Omar Ginoble Pandoli
Metals 2025, 15(8), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080832 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Carboxylate (TCNF) and sulfonated (SCNC) cellulose nanofibers were synthesized and used as adsorbents for metallic cations in aqueous solutions: Na+ and Hg2+ (SCNC); Mg2+ and Hg2+ (TCNF). ICP-OES analysis of the liquid phase revealed metal removal efficiencies at room [...] Read more.
Carboxylate (TCNF) and sulfonated (SCNC) cellulose nanofibers were synthesized and used as adsorbents for metallic cations in aqueous solutions: Na+ and Hg2+ (SCNC); Mg2+ and Hg2+ (TCNF). ICP-OES analysis of the liquid phase revealed metal removal efficiencies at room temperature of 89.3% (Hg2+) and 100% (Mg2+) for TCNF, 35.2% (Hg2+) and 63.3% (Na+) for SCNC after 3 h of contact. Interestingly, the nanofibers exhibited a distinct thermal degradation profile (characterized by two main events) compared to that of cellulose, suggesting that their nanostructured morphology and surface functionalization may enhance thermal instability. Additionally, the presence of metals at its surface notably altered the thermal degradation kinetics, as observed for mercury and magnesium in TCNF. Finally, the results for SCNC strongly suggest that the mechanism for thermal degradation can also change, as observed for mercury and sodium, expressed through the appearance of a new DTG peak located around 300 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Recycling of Valuable Metals—2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 5262 KiB  
Article
Designing Gel-Inspired Food-Grade O/W Pickering Emulsions with Bacterial Nanocellulose–Chitosan Complexes
by Antiopi Vardaxi, Eftychios Apostolidis, Ioanna G. Mandala, Stergios Pispas, Aristeidis Papagiannopoulos and Erminta Tsouko
Gels 2025, 11(8), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080577 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 345
Abstract
This study explored the potential of chitosan (CH)/bacterial cellulose (BC) complexes (0.5% w/v) as novel emulsifiers to stabilize oil-in-water (o/w) Pickering emulsions (20% v/v sunflower oil), with a focus on their gel-like behavior. Emulsions were prepared using CH [...] Read more.
This study explored the potential of chitosan (CH)/bacterial cellulose (BC) complexes (0.5% w/v) as novel emulsifiers to stabilize oil-in-water (o/w) Pickering emulsions (20% v/v sunflower oil), with a focus on their gel-like behavior. Emulsions were prepared using CH combined with BNC derived via H2SO4 (BNC1) or H2SO4-HCl (BNC2) hydrolysis. Increasing BNC content improved stability by reducing phase separation and enhancing viscosity, while CH contributed interfacial activity and electrostatic stabilization. CH/BNC125:75 emulsions showed the highest stability, maintaining an emulsion stability index (ESI) of up to 100% after 3 days, with minimal change in droplet size (Rh ~8.5–8.8 μm) and a positive ζ-potential (15.1–29.8 mV), as confirmed by dynamic/electrophoretic light scattering. pH adjustment to 4 and 10 had little effect on their ESI, while ionic strength studies showed that 0.1 M NaCl caused only a slight increase in droplet size combined with the highest ζ-potential (−35.2 mV). Higher salt concentrations led to coalescence and disruption of their gel-like structure. Rheological analysis of CH/BNC125:75 emulsions revealed shear-thinning behavior and dominant elastic properties (G′ > G″), indicating a soft gel network. Incorporating sunflower-seed protein isolates into CH/BNC1 (25:75) emulsions led to coacervate formation (three-layer system), characterized by a decrease in droplet size and an increase in ζ-potential (up to 32.8 mV) over 7 days. These findings highlight CH/BNC complexes as sustainable stabilizers for food-grade Pickering emulsions, supporting the development of biopolymer-based emulsifiers aligned with bioeconomy principles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Food Gels (2nd Edition))
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31 pages, 2773 KiB  
Review
Actualized Scope of Forestry Biomass Valorization in Chile: Fostering the Bioeconomy
by Cecilia Fuentalba, Victor Ferrer, Luis E. Arteaga-Perez, Jorge Santos, Nacarid Delgado, Yannay Casas-Ledón, Gastón Bravo-Arrepol, Miguel Pereira, Andrea Andrade, Danilo Escobar-Avello and Gustavo Cabrera-Barjas
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081208 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 564
Abstract
Chile is among the leading global exporters of pulp and paper, supported by extensive plantations of Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus spp. This review synthesizes recent progress in the valorization of forestry biomass in Chile, including both established practices and emerging bio-based applications. It [...] Read more.
Chile is among the leading global exporters of pulp and paper, supported by extensive plantations of Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus spp. This review synthesizes recent progress in the valorization of forestry biomass in Chile, including both established practices and emerging bio-based applications. It highlights advances in lignin utilization, nanocellulose production, hemicellulose processing, and tannin extraction, as well as developments in thermochemical conversion technologies, including torrefaction, pyrolysis, and gasification. Special attention is given to non-timber forest products and essential oils due to their potential bioactivity. Sustainability perspectives, including Life Cycle Assessments, national policy instruments such as the Circular Economy Roadmap and Extended Producer Responsibility (REP) Law, are integrated to provide context. Barriers to technology transfer and industrial implementation are also discussed. This work contributes to understanding how forestry biomass can support Chile’s transition toward a circular bioeconomy. Full article
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23 pages, 5750 KiB  
Article
Effect of Irradiated Nanocellulose on Enhancing the Functionality of Polylactic Acid-Based Composite Films for Packaging Applications
by Ilaria Improta, Mariamelia Stanzione, Elena Orlo, Fabiana Tescione, Marino Lavorgna, Xavier Coqueret and Giovanna G. Buonocore
Polymers 2025, 17(14), 1939; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17141939 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 307
Abstract
This study investigates the combined use of electron beam irradiation (EBI) and nanotechnology to develop improved food packaging films. EBI, commonly applied for sterilization, can alter polymer microstructure, while irradiated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) offer enhanced functionality when incorporated into biopolymer matrices. Here, CNCs [...] Read more.
This study investigates the combined use of electron beam irradiation (EBI) and nanotechnology to develop improved food packaging films. EBI, commonly applied for sterilization, can alter polymer microstructure, while irradiated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) offer enhanced functionality when incorporated into biopolymer matrices. Here, CNCs were irradiated with doses up to 50 kGy, leading to the formation of carboxyl and aldehyde groups, confirmed by FTIR analysis, as a consequence of the initial formation of free radicals and peroxides that may subsist in that original form or be converted into various carbonyl groups. Flexible films were obtained by incorporating pristine and EB-irradiated CNCs in an internal mixer, using minute amounts of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) to facilitate the dispersion of the filler within the polymer matrix. The resulting PLA/PEO/CNC films were evaluated for their mechanical, thermal, barrier, and antioxidant properties. The results showed that structural modifications of CNCs led to significant enhancements in the performance of the composite films, including a 30% improvement in water barrier properties and a 50% increase in antioxidant activity. These findings underscore the potential of irradiated CNCs as effective additives in biopolymer-based active packaging, offering a sustainable approach to reduce dependence on synthetic preservatives and potentially extend the shelf life of food products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Polymers for Value Added and Functional Packaging)
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21 pages, 4000 KiB  
Article
Structure-Properties Correlations of PVA-Cellulose Based Nanocomposite Films for Food Packaging Applications
by Konstantinos Papapetros, Georgios N. Mathioudakis, Dionysios Vroulias, Nikolaos Koutroumanis, George A. Voyiatzis and Konstantinos S. Andrikopoulos
Polymers 2025, 17(14), 1911; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17141911 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 434
Abstract
Bio-nanocomposites based on poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and cellulosic nanostructures are favorable for active food packaging applications. The current study systematically investigates the mechanical properties, gas permeation, and swelling parameters of PVA composites with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) or nano lignocellulose (NLC) fibers. Alterations [...] Read more.
Bio-nanocomposites based on poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and cellulosic nanostructures are favorable for active food packaging applications. The current study systematically investigates the mechanical properties, gas permeation, and swelling parameters of PVA composites with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) or nano lignocellulose (NLC) fibers. Alterations in these macroscopic properties, which are critical for food packaging applications, are correlated with structural information at the molecular level. Strong interactions between the fillers and polymer host matrix were observed, while the PVA crystallinity exhibited a maximum at ~1% loading. Finally, the orientation of the PVA nanocrystals in the uniaxially stretched samples was found to depend non-monotonically on the CNC loading and draw ratio. Concerning the macroscopic properties of the composites, the swelling properties were reduced for the D1 food simulant, while for water, a considerable decrease was observed only when high NLC loadings were involved. Furthermore, although the water vapor transmission rates are roughly similar for all samples, the CO2, N2, and O2 gas permeabilities are low, exhibiting further decrease in the 1% and 1–5% loading for CNC and NLC composites, respectively. The mechanical properties were considerably altered as a consequence of the good dispersion of the filler, increased crystallinity of the polymer matrix, and morphology of the filler. Thus, up to ~50%/~170% enhancement of the Young’s modulus and up to ~20%/~50% enhancement of the tensile strength are observed for the CNC/NLC composites. Interestingly, the elongation at break is also increased by ~20% for CNC composites, while it is reduced by ~40% for the NLC composites, signifying the favorable/unfavorable interactions of cellulose/lignin with the matrix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellulose and Its Composites: Preparation and Applications)
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