Absorbent Biopolymer from Crosslinked Plasticized Fish Gelatin

• Published in: Chemical Engineering Transactions
• Main Author: Ahmad M.S.; Mohamad Z.; Ali R.R.; Bakar A.A.; Zulkpli N.F.N.; Effendy E.H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Italian Association of Chemical Engineering - AIDIC 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85211068749&doi=10.3303%2fCET24113062&partnerID=40&md5=7ac820b5b37bbb99469284dbd247d60e

A moderate absorbency polymer derived from fish gelatin was investigated to enhance its mechanical properties and hydrophilicity through irradiation-induced crosslinking. Tilapia skin gelatin, plasticized with glycerol, was used to examine the effects of varying concentrations of glutaraldehyde (GTA) and different irradiation doses on the biopolymer's performance. The formulations were optimized, then incorporated GTA, and subjected to electron beam irradiation to explore the impact on the swelling capacity and mechanical integrity of the films. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to confirm the integration of crosslinkers and glycerol into the gelatin matrix, facilitating an understanding of the molecular interactions within the biopolymer. The study aims to advance the applications of fish gelatin-based moderate absorbency polymers in environmentally friendly and biodegradable products. Copyright © 2024, AIDIC Servizi S.r.l.