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Colloids Interfaces, Volume 6, Issue 4 (December 2022) – 33 articles

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14 pages, 1609 KiB  
Article
Effect of Enzymatic Hydrolysis on Solubility and Emulsifying Properties of Lupin Proteins (Lupinus luteus)
by Mauricio Opazo-Navarrete, César Burgos-Díaz, Karla A. Garrido-Miranda and Sergio Acuña-Nelson
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040082 - 15 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1850
Abstract
Solubility and emulsifying properties are important functional properties associated with proteins. However, many plant proteins have lower techno-functional properties, which limit their functional performance in many formulations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of protein hydrolysis by commercial [...] Read more.
Solubility and emulsifying properties are important functional properties associated with proteins. However, many plant proteins have lower techno-functional properties, which limit their functional performance in many formulations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of protein hydrolysis by commercial enzymes to improve their solubility and emulsifying properties. Lupin protein isolate (LPI) was hydrolyzed by 7 commercial proteases using different E/S ratios and hydrolysis times while the solubility and emulsifying properties were evaluated. The results showed that neutral and alkaline proteases are most efficient in hydrolyzing lupin proteins than acidic proteases. Among the proteases, Protamex® (alkaline protease) showed the highest DH values after 5 h of protein hydrolysis. Meanwhile, protein solubility of LPI hydrolysates was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than untreated LPI at all pH analyzed values. Moreover, the emulsifying capacity (EC) of undigested LPI was lower than most of the hydrolysates, except for acidic proteases, while emulsifying stability (ES) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than most LPI hydrolysates by acidic proteases, except for LPI hydrolyzed with Acid Stable Protease with an E/S ratio of 0.04. In conclusion, the solubility, and emulsifying properties of lupin (Lupinus luteus) proteins can be improved by enzymatic hydrolysis using commercial enzymes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Emulsions and Applications)
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25 pages, 4163 KiB  
Review
Interfacial Dynamics of Adsorption Layers as Supports for Biomedical Research and Diagnostics
by Eva Santini, Irene Nepita, Alexey G. Bykov, Francesca Ravera, Libero Liggieri, Saeid Dowlati, Aliyar Javadi, Reinhard Miller and Giuseppe Loglio
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040081 - 13 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2342
Abstract
The input of chemical and physical sciences to life sciences is increasingly important. Surface science as a complex multidisciplinary research area provides many relevant practical tools to support research in medicine. The tensiometry and surface rheology of human biological liquids as diagnostic tools [...] Read more.
The input of chemical and physical sciences to life sciences is increasingly important. Surface science as a complex multidisciplinary research area provides many relevant practical tools to support research in medicine. The tensiometry and surface rheology of human biological liquids as diagnostic tools have been very successfully applied. Additionally, for the characterization of pulmonary surfactants, this methodology is essential to deepen the insights into the functionality of the lungs and for the most efficient administration of certain drugs. Problems in ophthalmology can be addressed using surface science methods, such as the stability of the wetting films and the development of artificial tears. The serious problem of obesity is fast-developing in many industrial countries and must be better understood, while therapies for its treatment must also be developed. Finally, the application of fullerenes as a suitable system for detecting cancer in humans is discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Themed Issue in Honor of Prof. Boris Noskov)
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15 pages, 4606 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Slip Velocity at the Interface of Open-Cell Metal Foam Using 3D Printed Foams
by Khairul Azhar Mustapha, Fadhilah Shikh Anuar and Fatimah Al-Zahrah Mohd Saat
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040080 - 12 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1777
Abstract
An open-cell metal foam gains a lot of interest from researchers due to its unique porous structure, which provides high surface area and good tortuosity, as well as being lightweight. However, the same structure also induces a massive pressure drop which requires an [...] Read more.
An open-cell metal foam gains a lot of interest from researchers due to its unique porous structure, which provides high surface area and good tortuosity, as well as being lightweight. However, the same structure also induces a massive pressure drop which requires an optimum design to suit applications, for example, a partially filled setup or staggered design. Thus, better attention to the slip velocity at the interface between the porous structure and non-porous region is required to maximize its potential, especially in thermal fluid applications. This study proposed a slip velocity model of an open-cell metal foam by using a reverse engineering method and 3D printing technology. A series of experiments and a dimensionless analysis using the Buckingham-Pi theorem were used to compute the slip velocity model. Results show that the pressure drop increases with decreasing pore size. However, the blockage ratio effects would be more significant on the pressure drop with foams of smaller pore sizes. The proposed slip velocity model for an open-cell metal foam agrees with the experimental data, where the predicted values fall within measurement uncertainty. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Insight into Liquid/Fluid Interfaces)
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16 pages, 2966 KiB  
Review
Review on the Antioxidant Activity of Phenolics in o/w Emulsions along with the Impact of a Few Important Factors on Their Interfacial Behaviour
by Sotirios Kiokias and Vassiliki Oreopoulou
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040079 - 12 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1990
Abstract
This review paper focuses on the antioxidant properties of phenolic compounds in oil in water (o/w) emulsion systems. The authors first provide an overview of the most recent studies on the activity of common, naturally occurring phenolic compounds against the oxidative deterioration of [...] Read more.
This review paper focuses on the antioxidant properties of phenolic compounds in oil in water (o/w) emulsion systems. The authors first provide an overview of the most recent studies on the activity of common, naturally occurring phenolic compounds against the oxidative deterioration of o/w emulsions. A screening of the latest literature was subsequently performed with the aim to elucidate how specific parameters (polarity, pH, emulsifiers, and synergistic action) affect the phenolic interfacial distribution, which in turn determines their antioxidant potential in food emulsion systems. An understanding of the interfacial activity of phenolic antioxidants could be of interest to food scientists working on the development of novel food products enriched with functional ingredients. It would also provide further insight to health scientists exploring the potentially beneficial properties of phenolic antioxidants against the oxidative damage of amphiphilic biological membranes (which link to serious pathologic conditions). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Emulsions and Applications)
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34 pages, 10713 KiB  
Review
Polysaccharides-Based Injectable Hydrogels: Preparation, Characteristics, and Biomedical Applications
by Naglaa Salem El-Sayed and Samir Kamel
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040078 - 08 Dec 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2644
Abstract
Polysaccharides-based injectable hydrogels are a unique group of biodegradable and biocompatible materials that have shown great potential in the different biomedical fields. The biomolecules or cells can be simply blended with the hydrogel precursors with a high loading capacity by homogenous mixing. The [...] Read more.
Polysaccharides-based injectable hydrogels are a unique group of biodegradable and biocompatible materials that have shown great potential in the different biomedical fields. The biomolecules or cells can be simply blended with the hydrogel precursors with a high loading capacity by homogenous mixing. The different physical and chemical crosslinking approaches for preparing polysaccharide-based injectable hydrogels are reviewed. Additionally, the review highlights the recent work using polysaccharides-based injectable hydrogels as stimuli-responsive delivery vehicles for the controlled release of different therapeutic agents and viscoelastic matrix for cell encapsulation. Moreover, the application of polysaccharides-based injectable hydrogel in regenerative medicine as tissue scaffold and wound healing dressing is covered. Full article
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8 pages, 2383 KiB  
Article
Aggregation and Conductivity in Hot-Grown Petroporphyrin Films
by Oskar Koifman, Andrey Koptyaev, Vlad Travkin, Pavel Yunin, Nikolay Somov, Dmitry Masterov and Georgy Pakhomov
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040077 - 07 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1171
Abstract
As a follow-up to our study on aggregation of metal-etioporphyrin complexes (Colloids Surf. A. Physicochem. Eng. Asp. 2022, 648, 129284), we considered thin films of three isomers of copper(II) etioporphyrin deposited on hot substrates. Despite the almost identical absorption spectra of isomers, their [...] Read more.
As a follow-up to our study on aggregation of metal-etioporphyrin complexes (Colloids Surf. A. Physicochem. Eng. Asp. 2022, 648, 129284), we considered thin films of three isomers of copper(II) etioporphyrin deposited on hot substrates. Despite the almost identical absorption spectra of isomers, their solid-state superstructures differ remarkably both in form and size. The lateral conductivity of films is much less sensitive to an isomer-type, regardless of the substrate temperature. However, the dark conductivity of cold-grown films is about two orders of magnitude higher than that of hot-grown films, whereas the photoconductivity of the latter is 100–1700 times greater, depending on the isomer. Full article
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17 pages, 3509 KiB  
Article
Interfacial Properties of Pea Protein Hydrolysate: The Effect of Ionic Strength
by Krystalia Sarigiannidou, Davide Odelli, Flemming Jessen, Mohammad Amin Mohammadifar, Fatemeh Ajalloueian, Mar Vall-llosera, Antonio Fernandes de Carvalho and Federico Casanova
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040076 - 07 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1698
Abstract
The effect of a tryptic hydrolysis as well as the effect of ionic strength (0–0.4 M NaCl) was investigated on the oil/water interfacial properties of soluble pea protein hydrolysate (SPPH) at neutral pH and room temperature (20 ± 0.01 °C). SEC-MALS and SDS-Page [...] Read more.
The effect of a tryptic hydrolysis as well as the effect of ionic strength (0–0.4 M NaCl) was investigated on the oil/water interfacial properties of soluble pea protein hydrolysate (SPPH) at neutral pH and room temperature (20 ± 0.01 °C). SEC-MALS and SDS-Page analysis showed that tryptic hydrolysis created a lower molecular weight polypeptide mixture, whereas FTIR analysis and DSC thermograms demonstrated a more disordered and flexible structure. The bulk properties of SPPH were studied in terms of hydrodynamic diameter and turbidity, where higher particle size (+ ~13 nm) and turbidity were observed at 0.4 M NaCl. Regarding the interfacial properties, the surface activity of SPPH improved by increasing ionic strength, with maximum interfacial pressure (14.28 mN/m) at 0.4 M NaCl. Nevertheless, the addition of NaCl negatively affected the elasticity and strength of the interfacial film, where the sample without salt exhibited the highest dilatational and shear storage modulus in all the frequencies considered. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces)
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13 pages, 3018 KiB  
Article
Production of Graphene Stably Dispersible in Ethanol by Microwave Reaction
by Alberto Martis, Marco Fontana, Mara Serrapede, Stefano Bianco, Angelica Chiodoni, Candido Fabrizio Pirri and Sergio Bocchini
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040075 - 05 Dec 2022
Viewed by 1688
Abstract
Graphene is a 2D carbon material with peculiar features such as high electrical conductivity, high thermal conductivity, mechanical stability, and a high ratio between surface and thickness. Applications are continuously growing, and the possibility of dispersing graphene in low-boiling green solvents could reduce [...] Read more.
Graphene is a 2D carbon material with peculiar features such as high electrical conductivity, high thermal conductivity, mechanical stability, and a high ratio between surface and thickness. Applications are continuously growing, and the possibility of dispersing graphene in low-boiling green solvents could reduce its global environmental impact. Pristine graphene can be dispersed in high concentration only in polar aprotic solvents that usually have high boiling points and high toxicity. For this reason, the oxidized form of graphene is always used, as it is easier to disperse and to subsequently reduce to reduced graphene oxide. However, compared to pristine graphene, reduced graphene oxide has more defects and has inferior properties respect to graphene. In this work, the polymerization of (diethyl maleate derivate) on graphene obtained by sonication was performed in a microwave reactor. The obtained material has good stability in ethanol even after a long period of time, therefore, it can be used to deposit graphene by mass production of inks or by casting and easy removal of the solvent. The thermal annealing by heating at 300–400 °C in inert atmosphere allows the removal of the polymer to obtain pristine graphene with a low number of defects. Full article
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11 pages, 3115 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Antibacterial Silver Nanocolloids with Agroindustrial Waste Extracts, Assisted by LED Light
by Ambar Cañadas, Arleth Gualle, Karla Vizuete, Alexis Debut, Patricio Rojas-Silva, Sebastian Ponce and Lourdes M. Orejuela-Escobar
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040074 - 01 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1675
Abstract
Herein, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), assisted by LED light, using the aqueous extracts of agroindustrial waste products, such as avocado seeds (ASs), cocoa pod husks (CPHs), and orange peels (OPs), is presented. Surface plasmon resonance analysis showed faster and complete [...] Read more.
Herein, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), assisted by LED light, using the aqueous extracts of agroindustrial waste products, such as avocado seeds (ASs), cocoa pod husks (CPHs), and orange peels (OPs), is presented. Surface plasmon resonance analysis showed faster and complete NP formation when irradiated with blue LED light. Green and red light irradiation showed non- and limited nanoparticle formation. TEM analyses confirmed the semispherical morphology of the synthesized AgNPs, with the exception of OP–AgNPs, which showed agglomeration during the light irradiation. For AS–AgNPs and CPH–AgNPs, the average particle diameter was about 15 nm. Interestingly, the CPH extract demonstrated faster nanoparticle formation as compared to the AS extract (100 min vs. 250 min irradiation time, respectively). FTIR spectroscopy assessed the involvement of diverse functional groups of the bioactive phytochemicals present in the plant extracts during nanoparticle photobiosynthesis. The antioxidant activity, as determined by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, varied from 1323.72 µmol TE/mL in the AS aqueous extract to 836.50 µmol TE/mL in the CPH aqueous extract. The total polyphenol content was determined according to the Folin–Ciocalteu procedure; the AS aqueous extract exhibited a higher polyphenol content (1.54 mg GAE/g) than did the CPH aqueous extract (0.948 mg GAE/g). In vitro antibacterial assays revealed that the AS–AgNPs exhibited promising antibacterial properties against pathogenic bacteria (E. Coli), whereas the CPH–AgNPs showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. The green synthesis of AgNPs using AS, CPH, and OP aqueous extracts reported in this work is environmentally friendly and cost-effective, and it paves the way for future studies related to agroindustrial waste valorization for the production of advanced nanomaterials, such as antibacterial AgNPs, for potential biomedical, industrial, and environmental applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces)
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15 pages, 2792 KiB  
Article
Remarkable Separation of Carbofuran Pesticide from Aqueous Solution Using Free Metal Ion Variation on Aluminum-Based Metal-Organic Framework
by Marwa Nabil, Fatma M. Elantabli, Samir M. El-Medani and Reda M. Abdelhameed
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040073 - 28 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1538
Abstract
The alarming increase in pesticide residues poses a major threat to aquatic and natural habitats. Therefore, it has become essential to design extremely operationally and economically advantageous systems for the removal of carbofuran pesticides from wastewater. Here, an aluminum-based metal-organic framework (MOF), MIL-53-NH [...] Read more.
The alarming increase in pesticide residues poses a major threat to aquatic and natural habitats. Therefore, it has become essential to design extremely operationally and economically advantageous systems for the removal of carbofuran pesticides from wastewater. Here, an aluminum-based metal-organic framework (MOF), MIL-53-NH2, and its modified forms, MIL-53-NH-ph, MIL-53-NH-ph-Fe, MIL-53-NH-ph-Zn, and MIL-53-NH-ph-Cu, have been successfully synthesized. Full characterization using IR, 1HNMR, XRD, and SEM was carried out. The prepared MOFs have been utilized as effective adsorbents for carbofuran in aqueous solutions. The various factors affecting the adsorption process (pH, time, and adsorbate concentration) were also investigated. Spectroscopic approaches were used to investigate the adsorption mechanisms. A mixture of π-π stacking contact, coordination bonding, and hydrogen bond formation can be connected to the current process. The adsorption of carbofuran from aqueous solutions was best described by pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir equilibrium isotherm models. MIL-53-NH2, MIL-53-NH-Ph, MIL-53-NH-Ph-Fe, MIL-53-NH-Ph-Zn, and MIL-53-NH-Ph-Cu demonstrated adsorption capacities of 367.8, 462.1, 662.94, 717.6, and 978.6 mg g−1, respectively. Full article
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14 pages, 6160 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Polystyrene/AlOOH Hybrid Material for Pb(II) Decontamination from Wastewater: Isotherm, Kinetic, and Thermodynamic Studies
by Rajeev Kumar
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040072 - 24 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1312
Abstract
The nanomaterials’ toxicity to aquatic life is a big issue due to improper handling or incomplete separation after use. The immobilization of the nanomaterials in the polymeric matrix could be a practical approach to developing an efficient hybrid composite for wastewater purification. In [...] Read more.
The nanomaterials’ toxicity to aquatic life is a big issue due to improper handling or incomplete separation after use. The immobilization of the nanomaterials in the polymeric matrix could be a practical approach to developing an efficient hybrid composite for wastewater purification. In this study, AlOOH nanoparticles were immobilized in the polystyrene polymeric matrix to prepare an effective adsorbent to scavenge the Pb(II) from the aqueous solution. The synthesized polystyrene/AlOOH (PS/AlOOH) hybrid was characterized using microscopic techniques coupled with elemental mapping and EDX, X-ray diffraction, and a furrier-transformed infrared spectrometer. The results revealed that the Pb(II) adsorption onto the polystyrene/AlOOH composite depends on the solution pH, the Pb(II) concentrations in the solution, the adsorption time, and the solute temperature. The maximum scavenging of Pb(II) occurs at pH 6 in 90 min. The adsorption of Pb(II) onto PS/AlOOH decreases from 97.7% to 58.5% with the increase in the Pb(II) concentration from 20 mg g−1 to 100 mg g−1. The kinetics and isotherm modeling demonstrated that Pb(II) adsorption is well suited for the pseudo-second-order kinetics and Toth isotherm models, suggesting that the chemisorption occurs at the heterogeneous surface of PS/AlOOH. The PS/AlOOH composite could be used multiple times without a significant loss in the adsorption efficiency. These results demonstrated that the polystyrene/AlOOH composite is an effective material for the purification of wastewater and can be used on a large scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Colloids Science in Asia)
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9 pages, 3260 KiB  
Article
Emulsifiers from White Beans: Extraction and Characterization
by Paraskevi Lentzi, Despoina Georgiou, Eleni P. Kalogianni, Anastasia Kyriakoudi and Christos Ritzoulis
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040071 - 21 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1677
Abstract
This paper studies the emulsification capacity of aqueous extracts from white beans and reports the relations between the composition and structure of the extracts’ macromolecular components and their exerted emulsification ability. The extracts comprise of three distinct populations: one of large (few MDa) [...] Read more.
This paper studies the emulsification capacity of aqueous extracts from white beans and reports the relations between the composition and structure of the extracts’ macromolecular components and their exerted emulsification ability. The extracts comprise of three distinct populations: one of large (few MDa) polysaccharides, proteins (tens of kDa), and smaller molecular entities (oligopeptides and oligosaccharides, polyphenols, and salts, among other molecules); the proteins and the smaller molecules adsorb onto oil–water interfaces, providing some emulsification capacity at pH 3 and adequate emulsification at pH 7. Unabsorbed polysaccharides, such as starch, cause depletion flocculation. Pickering phenomena are involved in the stabilization mechanism. The findings are supported by SEC–MALLS/UV, confocal microscopy, zeta potential measurements, and FT–IR data. A discussion is made on the particular attributes of each population in emulsion stability, on their relevance to culinary practice, and in their potential as replacers of artificial emulsifiers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Colloids II)
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12 pages, 2150 KiB  
Article
Addition of Trans-Resveratrol-Loaded, Highly Concentrated Double Emulsion to Moisturizing Cream: Effect on Physicochemical Properties
by Rocío Díaz-Ruiz, Amanda Laca, Ismael Marcet, Lemuel Martínez-Rey, María Matos and Gemma Gutiérrez
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040070 - 16 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1311
Abstract
Resveratrol is a compound increasingly studied for its many beneficial properties for health. However, it is a highly unstable photosensitive compound, and therefore it is necessary to encapsulate it to protect it if you want to use it in a commercial product. Emulsions [...] Read more.
Resveratrol is a compound increasingly studied for its many beneficial properties for health. However, it is a highly unstable photosensitive compound, and therefore it is necessary to encapsulate it to protect it if you want to use it in a commercial product. Emulsions are systems that allow the encapsulation of active ingredients, protecting them and allowing their release in a controlled manner. They are highly used systems in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The main objectives of this work are to study the feasibility of encapsulating resveratrol in concentrated water-in-oil-in-water double emulsions and the effect produced by adding the double emulsion with optimal formulation to a commercial cream for cosmetic applications. The effect of the selected optimal double emulsion on a commercial cream was studied, analyzing droplet size distribution, morphology, stability and rheology. The main conclusion of this work is that incorporating 1/3 of concentrated double emulsion W1/O/W2 into a commercial moisturizing cream had a positive physical effect and produced cream with a resveratrol concentration of up to 0.0042 mg/g. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Emulsions and Applications)
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13 pages, 1880 KiB  
Article
Can Enzymatic Treatment of Sugar Beet Pectins Reduce Coalescence Effects in High-Pressure Processes?
by Benjamin Bindereif, Heike Petra Karbstein and Ulrike Sabine van der Schaaf
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040069 - 15 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1799
Abstract
While sugar beet pectins (SBPs) are well known for effectively stabilizing fine oil droplets in low-fat food and beverages, e.g., low-fat dressings and soft drinks, it often fails in products of higher oil contents. The aim of this study was to improve the [...] Read more.
While sugar beet pectins (SBPs) are well known for effectively stabilizing fine oil droplets in low-fat food and beverages, e.g., low-fat dressings and soft drinks, it often fails in products of higher oil contents. The aim of this study was to improve the emulsifying properties of SBPs and, consequently, their ability to reduce coalescence during high pressure homogenization of products with increased oil content. Therefore, the molecular size of SBPs was reduced by partial cleavage of the homogalacturonan backbone using the enzymes exo- and endo-polygalacturonanase and varying incubation times. The sizes of SBPs were compared based on the molecular size distribution and hydrodynamic diameter. In addition, to obtain information on the interfacial activity and adsorption rate of SBPs, the dynamic interfacial tension was measured by drop profile analysis tensiometry. The (non)modified SBPs were used as emulsifying agents in 30 wt% mct oil–water emulsions stabilized with 0.5 wt% SBP at pH 3, prepared by high-pressure homogenization (400–1000 bar). By analyzing the droplet size distributions, conclusions could be drawn about the coalescence that occurred after droplet breakup. It could be shown that SBPs modified by exo-polygalacturonanase stabilized the oil–water interface more rapidly, resulting in less coalescence and the smallest oil droplets. In contrast, SBPs modified with endo-polygalacturonanase resulted in poorer emulsification properties, and thus larger oil droplets with increasing incubation time. The differences could be attributed to the different cleavage pattern of the enzymes used. The results suggest that a minimum molecular size is required for the stabilization of fine oil droplets with SBPs as emulsifiers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Colloids II)
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12 pages, 2132 KiB  
Article
Direct Resolution of the Interactions of a Hydrocarbon Gas with Adsorbed Surfactant Monolayers at the Water/Air Interface Using Neutron Reflectometry
by Richard A. Campbell, Talmira Kairaliyeva, Svetlana Santer, Emanuel Schneck and Reinhard Miller
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040068 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1268
Abstract
We have directly resolved in the present work the interfacial composition during and after the interactions of a saturated atmosphere of oil vapor with soluble surfactant solutions at a planar water/air interface for the first time. Experiments were conducted on interactions of hexane [...] Read more.
We have directly resolved in the present work the interfacial composition during and after the interactions of a saturated atmosphere of oil vapor with soluble surfactant solutions at a planar water/air interface for the first time. Experiments were conducted on interactions of hexane vapor with solutions of alkyltrimethylammonium bromides and sodium dodecyl sulfate to observe the balance between cooperativity and competition of the components at the interface. In all cases, hexane adsorption was strongly enhanced by the presence of the surfactant, even at bulk surfactant concentrations four orders of magnitude below the critical micelle concentration. Cooperativity of the surfactant adsorption was observed only for sodium dodecyl sulfate at intermediate bulk concentrations, yet for all four systems, competition set in at higher concentrations, as hexane adsorption reduced the surfactant surface excess. The data fully supported the complete removal of hexane from the interface following venting of the system to remove the saturated atmosphere of oil vapor. These results help to identify future experiments that would elaborate and could explain the cooperativity of surfactant adsorption, such as on cationic surfactants with short alkyl chains and a broader series of anionic surfactants. This work holds relevance for oil recovery applications with foam, where there is a gas phase saturated with oil vapor. Full article
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21 pages, 4206 KiB  
Article
Thermoresponsive Starch Nanoparticles for the Extraction of Bitumen from Oil Sands
by Natun Dasgupta, Jun-Zhi Oliver Wang, Vo Thu An Nguyen and Mario Gauthier
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040067 - 09 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1700
Abstract
Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) useful for the extraction of bitumen from oil sands were obtained by modification with thermoresponsive poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (PMEO2MA) segments through RAFT (Reversible Addition–Fragmentation chain Transfer) grafting. Since PMEO2MA exhibits a Lower Critical Aggregation [...] Read more.
Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) useful for the extraction of bitumen from oil sands were obtained by modification with thermoresponsive poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (PMEO2MA) segments through RAFT (Reversible Addition–Fragmentation chain Transfer) grafting. Since PMEO2MA exhibits a Lower Critical Aggregation Temperature (LCAT), the polymer-grafted SNPs are amphiphilic above the LCAT of the thermoresponsive polymer and can interact efficiently with bitumen in the oil sands, facilitating its extraction. The PMEO2MA-grafted SNPs form micellar aggregates that remain dispersed in water but can shuttle the bitumen component out of the sand and silt mixture in the extraction process above the LCAT. Upon cooling, the hydrophobic PMEO2MA domains become hydrophilic again and the grafted SNPs remain in the water phase, while the extracted oil floats on the aqueous phase and can be skimmed off. The aqueous polymer solution may be reused in other extraction cycles. Extraction by tumbling of the oil-water-SNP mixtures in vials at 45 °C reached over 80% efficiency. The synthetic methods used provide easy control over the characteristics of the grafted SNPs (number and length of grafted PMEO2MA segments), and therefore over their hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB). The SNP-g-PMEO2MA samples were characterized by 1H NMR, UV-visible spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis, and the grafted PMEO2MA chains were cleaved from the starch substrates for analysis by gel permeation chromatography. Full article
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13 pages, 4884 KiB  
Article
Turning a Novel Janus Electrospun Mat into an Amphiphilic Membrane with High Aromatic Hydrocarbon Adsorption Capacity
by Nicolás Torasso, Paula González-Seligra, Federico Trupp, Diana Grondona and Silvia Goyanes
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040066 - 04 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1590
Abstract
Aromatic hydrocarbons in water is one of the collateral effects of the petrochemical industry and represents a serious problem both for their toxicity and environmental contamination. In this work, an innovative amphiphilic membrane was developed capable of rapidly removing hydrocarbons (such as BTEX) [...] Read more.
Aromatic hydrocarbons in water is one of the collateral effects of the petrochemical industry and represents a serious problem both for their toxicity and environmental contamination. In this work, an innovative amphiphilic membrane was developed capable of rapidly removing hydrocarbons (such as BTEX) present in water under the solubility limit. Firstly, a Janus nanostructured membrane was developed from the deposition of superhydrophobic carbonaceous nanoparticles (CNPs) synthesized by radiofrequency plasma polymerization on a hydrophilic electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) mat. Secondly, this membrane was turned amphiphilic by UV exposure, allowing water to pass through. The surface properties of the membranes were studied through SEM, contact angle, and FTIR analysis. Dead-end experiments showed that the toluene and xylene selective sorption capacity reached the outstanding adsorption capacity of 647 mg/g and 666 mg/g, respectively, and that the membrane could be reused three times without efficiency loss. Furthermore, swelling of the PVA fibers prevented the liberation of NPs. The selective sorption capacity of the UV-exposed CNPs was explained by studying the interfacial energy relations between the materials at play. This work provides a simple, low-cost, and scalable technique to develop membranes with great potential for water remediation, including the removal of volatile organic compounds from produced water, as well as separating oil-in-water emulsions. Full article
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19 pages, 2864 KiB  
Article
Effect of Acyl Chain Length on Hydrophobized Cashew Gum Self-Assembling Nanoparticles: Colloidal Properties and Amphotericin B Delivery
by Ana R. Richter, José G. Veras-Neto, Jeanlex S. Sousa, Josilayne F. S. Mendes, Raquel O. S. Fontenelle, Stéphanie A. N. M. Silva, José D. B. Marinho-Filho, Ana J. Araújo, Judith P. A. Feitosa, Haroldo C. B. Paula, Francisco M. Goycoolea and Regina C. M. de Paula
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040065 - 04 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1477
Abstract
Given its many potential applications, cashew gum hydrophobic derivatives have gained increasing attraction in recent years. We report here the effect of acyl chain length on hydrophobized cashew gum derivatives, using acetic, propionic, and butyric anhydrides on self-assembly nanoparticle properties and amphotericin B [...] Read more.
Given its many potential applications, cashew gum hydrophobic derivatives have gained increasing attraction in recent years. We report here the effect of acyl chain length on hydrophobized cashew gum derivatives, using acetic, propionic, and butyric anhydrides on self-assembly nanoparticle properties and amphotericin B delivery. Nanoparticles with unimodal particle size distribution, highly negative zeta potential, and low PDI were produced. Butyrate cashew gum nanoparticles presented smaller size (<~100 nm) than acetylated and propionate cashew gum nanoparticles and no cytotoxicity in murine fibroblast cells was observed up to 100 µg/mL for loaded and unloaded nanoparticles. As a proof of concept of the potential use of the developed nanoparticle as a drug carrier formulation, amphotericin B (AmB) was encapsulated and fully characterized in their physicochemical, AmB association and release, stability, and biological aspects. They exhibited average hydrodynamic diameter lower than ~200 nm, high AmB efficiency encapsulations (up to 94.9%), and controlled release. A decrease in AmB release with the increasing of the anhydride chain length was observed, which explains the differences in antifungal activity against Candida albicans strains. An excellent storage colloidal stability was observed for unloaded and loaded AmB without use of surfactant. Considering the AmB delivery, the acyl derivative with low chain length is shown to be the best one, as it has high drug loading and AmB release, as well as low minimum inhibitory concentration against Candida albicans strains. Full article
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15 pages, 1663 KiB  
Article
Stability Studies and the In Vitro Leishmanicidal Activity of Hyaluronic Acid-Based Nanoemulsion Containing Pterodon pubescens Benth. Oil
by Sirlene Adriana Kleinubing, Priscila Miyuki Outuki, Éverton da Silva Santos, Jaqueline Hoscheid, Getulio Capello Tominc, Mariana Dalmagro, Edson Antônio da Silva, Marli Miriam de Souza Lima, Celso Vataru Nakamura and Mara Lane Carvalho Cardoso
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040064 - 03 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1427
Abstract
The physicochemical and microbiological stability of a hyaluronic acid-based nanostructured topical delivery system containing P. pubescens fruit oil was evaluated, and the in vitro antileishmanial activity of the nanoemulsion against Leishmania amazonensis and the cytotoxicity on macrophages was investigated. The formulation stored at [...] Read more.
The physicochemical and microbiological stability of a hyaluronic acid-based nanostructured topical delivery system containing P. pubescens fruit oil was evaluated, and the in vitro antileishmanial activity of the nanoemulsion against Leishmania amazonensis and the cytotoxicity on macrophages was investigated. The formulation stored at 5 ± 2 °C, compared with the formulation stored at 30 and 40 ± 2 °C, showed a higher chemical and physical stability during the period analyzed and in the accelerated physical stability study. The formulation stored at 40 °C presented a significant change in droplet diameter, polydispersity index, zeta potential, pH, active compound, and consistency index and was considered unstable. The microbiological stability of the formulations was confirmed. The leishmanicidal activity of the selected system against intracellular amastigotes was significantly superior to that observed for the free oil. However, further research is needed to explore the use of the hyaluronic acid-based nanostructured system containing P. pubescens fruit oil for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Emulsions and Applications)
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20 pages, 6773 KiB  
Article
Experimental Evaluation of Foam Diversion for EOR in Heterogeneous Carbonate Rocks
by Motaz Taha, Pramod Patil and Quoc Nguyen
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040063 - 02 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1568
Abstract
Immiscible gas injection applied to heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs can be inefficient due to poor conformance control. Foam mobility control is proposed in this work as a solution for gas conformance issues in such reservoirs. A unique experimental program was developed to evaluate alkyl [...] Read more.
Immiscible gas injection applied to heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs can be inefficient due to poor conformance control. Foam mobility control is proposed in this work as a solution for gas conformance issues in such reservoirs. A unique experimental program was developed to evaluate alkyl polyglucoside (APG) stabilized foam for foaming ability, emulsion-forming tendency and resistance to oil. Dynamic methane foam behavior is systematically studied through single and dual injection core flooding experiments, simulating foam diversion during immiscible methane flooding in a layered reservoir with a significant layer permeability contrast. Results show a stable foam-oil system with no viscous emulsions at very high formation brine salinity (144,000 ppm total dissolved solids). Single-core floods for the high permeability layer (Unit-A) showed that foam viscosity of 27 cP could be achieved at 11% oil saturation (So). Under similar oil-wet condition, the low permeability zone (Unit-B) could generate foam of 21 cP at 18.9% So, indicating an increase in injected fluid mobility reduction with permeability. Dual-core injection experiments, which is designed to evaluate accurately fluid diversion capacity of such foams, reveals remarkable dynamic foam behaviors. While the water-wet condition indicates the scalability of foam behaviors (i.e., the ability of foam to control fluid mobility against the variation of rock permeability) between the single and composite core systems, the oil-wet condition confirms good foam resistance to residual oil that resulted in an increase in Unit B production from 46 to 82%, and 74 to 85% for Unit-A. Moreover, dual-core floods representing premature waterfloods (i.e., higher oil saturation) shows even more dramatic incremental oil recovery (44 to 81% in Unit-A and 17.5 to 71% in Unit-B), evidencing the ability of foam to self-viscosify with permeability variation at varying oil saturations. Full article
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12 pages, 3269 KiB  
Article
The Viscosity and Self-Diffusion of Some Real Colloidal Ferrofluids
by Luis D. Ávalos González, Martin Hernández-Contreras and Karen Meza Martínez
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040062 - 31 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1143
Abstract
One primary concern in colloid science is understanding the relationship of its macroscopic rheology and diffusion behavior with the observed microscopic arrangements of the nanoparticles in the fluid. This manuscript addresses the study of these dynamical properties through a first-principle stochastic method. Both [...] Read more.
One primary concern in colloid science is understanding the relationship of its macroscopic rheology and diffusion behavior with the observed microscopic arrangements of the nanoparticles in the fluid. This manuscript addresses the study of these dynamical properties through a first-principle stochastic method. Both properties directly relate to the observed fluid structure factor, which depends on a few known material parameters. However, in the literature, this static quantity is reported up to the first prominent peak of its small momentum transfer of the scattered radiation, leading to inaccurate determination of the transport properties. Here, it is proposed to use the rescaled mean spherical approximation under the requirement of fitting the experimental data of the structure beyond the dependence of more significant wave numbers. The predicted viscosity agrees with the observed ones at a low volume fraction of particles for ferrofluids dispersed in polymer solvents. This rheological quantity is inversely related to the self-diffusion coefficient of a tracer particle. Full article
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10 pages, 1571 KiB  
Article
A Colorimetric Detection of Noradrenaline in Wastewater Using Citrate-Capped Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles Probe
by Numeerah Ally, Nokwanda Hendricks and Bhekumuzi Gumbi
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040061 - 31 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1719
Abstract
This study reports a simple, fast, and low-cost detection of noradrenaline (NA) in wastewater using citrate-capped colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The addition of NA to citrate-capped colloidal AuNPs generates a colour modulation that the bare eye can detect due to the aggregation of [...] Read more.
This study reports a simple, fast, and low-cost detection of noradrenaline (NA) in wastewater using citrate-capped colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The addition of NA to citrate-capped colloidal AuNPs generates a colour modulation that the bare eye can detect due to the aggregation of the colloidal AuNPs. The relationship between the NA concentration and colloidal AuNPs aggregation was further monitored by ultraviolet–visible light (UV–vis) spectroscopy in an aqueous solution. The method displayed a linear range of 0–500 μM with R2 = 0.99 and an LOD and LOQ of 42.2 and 140.5 μM. Application in an environmental sample collected from the Darville Wastewater Treatment Plant shows that this work provided a cost-effective and spectrophotometric method that could be used for monitoring contamination in wastewater. Full article
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27 pages, 1543 KiB  
Article
Transient Analysis of the Electro-Osmotic Flow of Multilayer Immiscible Maxwell Fluids in an Annular Microchannel
by Juan P. Escandón, David A. Torres, Clara G. Hernández, Juan R. Gómez and René O. Vargas
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040060 - 24 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1609
Abstract
This work investigates the transient multilayer electro-osmotic flow of viscoelastic fluids through an annular microchannel. The dimensionless mathematical model of multilayer flow is integrated by the linearized Poisson-Boltzmann equation, the Cauchy momentum equation, the rheological Maxwell model, initial conditions, and the electrostatic and [...] Read more.
This work investigates the transient multilayer electro-osmotic flow of viscoelastic fluids through an annular microchannel. The dimensionless mathematical model of multilayer flow is integrated by the linearized Poisson-Boltzmann equation, the Cauchy momentum equation, the rheological Maxwell model, initial conditions, and the electrostatic and hydrodynamic boundary conditions at liquid-liquid and solid-liquid interfaces. Although the main force that drives the movement of fluids is due to electrokinetic effects, a pressure gradient can also be added to the flow. The semi-analytical solution for the electric potential distribution and velocity profiles considers analytical techniques as the Laplace transform method, with numerical procedures using the inverse matrix method for linear algebraic equations and the concentrated matrix exponential method for the inversion of the Laplace transform. The results presented for velocity profiles and velocity tracking at the transient regime reveal an interesting oscillatory behavior that depends on elastic fluid properties via relaxation times. The time required for the flow to reach steady-state is highly dependent on the viscosity ratios and the dimensionless relaxation times. In addition, the influence of other dimensionless parameters on the flow as the electrokinetic parameters, zeta potentials at the walls, permittivity ratios, ratio of pressure forces to electro-osmotic forces, number of fluid layers, and annular thickness are investigated. The findings of this study have significant implications for the precise control of parallel fluid transport in microfluidic devices for flow-focusing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rheology of Complex Fluids and Interfaces)
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12 pages, 2685 KiB  
Article
Deposition of Colloidal Magnetite on Stainless Steel in Simulated Steam Generator Conditions—Experiments and Modeling
by Iva Betova, Martin Bojinov and Vasil Karastoyanov
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040059 - 21 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1319
Abstract
Sludge formation via colloidal magnetite deposition in steam generators is an important phenomenon that significantly influences the thermohydraulic properties and corrosion of structural materials. This paper aims to verify a model of sludge deposition and consolidation with emphasis on its most significant parameters [...] Read more.
Sludge formation via colloidal magnetite deposition in steam generators is an important phenomenon that significantly influences the thermohydraulic properties and corrosion of structural materials. This paper aims to verify a model of sludge deposition and consolidation with emphasis on its most significant parameters and their experimental estimation. In-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) measurements are employed for quantitative evaluation of magnetite deposition kinetics on stainless steel in ammonia-ethanolamine (AMETA) secondary coolant at different temperatures. Parameterization of the model by quantitative comparison of the mixed-conduction model (MCM) with experimental data is discussed. Model predictions are compared with literature data from laboratory experiments and plant operation. Conclusions are drawn about the applicability of the model for quantitative assessment of sludge deposition and consolidation rates. Full article
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15 pages, 2033 KiB  
Article
Drop Impact onto a Substrate Wetted by Another Liquid: Flow in the Wall Film
by Bastian Stumpf, Jeanette Hussong and Ilia V. Roisman
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040058 - 20 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1443
Abstract
The impact of a drop onto a liquid film is relevant for many natural phenomena and industrial applications such as spray painting, inkjet printing, agricultural sprays, or spray cooling. In particular, the height of liquid remaining on the substrate after impact is of [...] Read more.
The impact of a drop onto a liquid film is relevant for many natural phenomena and industrial applications such as spray painting, inkjet printing, agricultural sprays, or spray cooling. In particular, the height of liquid remaining on the substrate after impact is of special interest for painting and coating but also for applications involving heat transfer from the wall. While much progress has been made in explaining the hydrodynamics of drop impact onto a liquid film of the same liquid, the physics of drop impact onto a wall film with different material properties is still not well understood. In this study, drop impact onto a very thin liquid film of another liquid is investigated. The thickness of the film remaining on a substrate after drop impact is measured using a chromatic-confocal line sensor. It is interesting that the residual film thickness does not depend on the initial thickness of the wall film, but strongly depends on its viscosity. A theoretical model for the flow in the drop and wall film is developed which accounts for the development of viscous boundary layers in both liquids. The theoretical predictions agree well with the experimental data. Full article
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12 pages, 2607 KiB  
Article
Bionanocomposite Active Packaging Material Based on Soy Protein Isolate/Persian Gum/Silver Nanoparticles; Fabrication and Characteristics
by Mahmood Alizadeh Sani, Arezou Khezerlou, Milad Tavassoli, Keyhan Mohammadi, Shokoufeh Hassani, Ali Ehsani and David Julian McClements
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040057 - 18 Oct 2022
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 2578
Abstract
In this study, nanocomposite active films were fabricated containing silver nanoparticles (SNPs) embedded within soy protein isolate (SPI)/Persian gum (PG) matrices. The physical, mechanical, and antibacterial properties of these composite films were then characterized. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared [...] Read more.
In this study, nanocomposite active films were fabricated containing silver nanoparticles (SNPs) embedded within soy protein isolate (SPI)/Persian gum (PG) matrices. The physical, mechanical, and antibacterial properties of these composite films were then characterized. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to provide information about the microstructure, interactions, and crystallinity of the films. Pure SPI films had poor physicochemical attributes but the addition of PG (0.25, 0.5, or 1 wt%) improved their water vapor permeability, mechanical properties, and water solubility (WS). The moisture content (MC) of the films decreased after the introduction of PG, which was attributed to fewer free hydroxyl groups to bind to the water molecules. Our results suggest there was a strong interaction between the SPI and the PG and SNPs in the films, suggesting these additives behaved like active fillers. Optimum film properties were obtained at 0.25% PG in the SPI films. The addition of PG (0.25%) and SNPs (1%) led to a considerable increase in tensile strength (TS) and a decrease in elongation at break (EB). Furthermore, the incorporation of the SNPs into the SPI/PG composite films increased their antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus), with the effects being more prominent for S. aureus. Spectroscopy analyses provided insights into the nature of the molecular interactions between the different components in the films. Overall, the biodegradable active films developed in this study may be suitable for utilization as eco-friendly packaging materials in the food industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces)
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14 pages, 4234 KiB  
Article
Unfolded Lipase at Interfaces Studied via Interfacial Dilational Rheology: The Impact of Urea
by Saeid Dowlati, Aliyar Javadi, Reinhard Miller, Kerstin Eckert and Matthias Kraume
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040056 - 17 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1578
Abstract
Unfolding can interrupt the activity of enzymes. Lipase, the enzyme responsible for triglyceride catalysis, can be deactivated by unfolding, which can significantly affect the yield of enzymatic processes in biochemical engineering. Different agents can induce lipase unfolding, among which we study the impact [...] Read more.
Unfolding can interrupt the activity of enzymes. Lipase, the enzyme responsible for triglyceride catalysis, can be deactivated by unfolding, which can significantly affect the yield of enzymatic processes in biochemical engineering. Different agents can induce lipase unfolding, among which we study the impact of urea as a strong denaturant. Unfolding weakens the rigidity and stability of globular proteins, thereby changing the viscoelastic properties of the protein adsorbed layers. These changes can be detected and quantified using interfacial dilational rheology. The urea-induced unfolding of lipase destructs its globular structure, making it more flexible. The interfacial tension and viscoelastic moduli of lipase adsorbed layers reduce upon the addition of urea in the range of studied concentrations. The results agree with the theory that, upon unfolding, a distal region of the loop and tail domain forms adjacent to the proximal region of the interface. The exchange of matter between these regions reduces the viscoelasticity of the unfolded lipase adsorbed layers. Additionally, unfolding reduces the rigidity and brittleness of the lipase adsorbed layers: the aged adsorbed layer of native lipase can break upon high-amplitude perturbations of the interfacial area, unlike the case for urea-induced unfolded lipase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces)
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10 pages, 1083 KiB  
Article
Why Is the Linearized Form of Pseudo-Second Order Adsorption Kinetic Model So Successful in Fitting Batch Adsorption Experimental Data?
by Margaritis Kostoglou and Thodoris D. Karapantsios
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040055 - 12 Oct 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2127
Abstract
There is a vast amount of literature devoted to experimental studies on adsorption from liquids examining the adsorption potential of various adsorbents with respect to various solutes. Most of these studies contain not only equilibrium but also kinetic experimental data. The standard procedure [...] Read more.
There is a vast amount of literature devoted to experimental studies on adsorption from liquids examining the adsorption potential of various adsorbents with respect to various solutes. Most of these studies contain not only equilibrium but also kinetic experimental data. The standard procedure followed in the literature is to fit the kinetic experimental adsorption data to some models. Typically empirical models are employed for this purpose and among them, the pseudo-first and pseudo-second order kinetic models are the most extensively used. In particular, the linear form of their integrated equations is extensively employed. In most cases, it is found that the pseudo-second order model is not only better than other models but also leads to high fitting quality. This is rather strange since there is no physical justification for such a model, as it is well accepted that adsorption kinetics is dominated by a diffusion process. In the present work, it will be shown through examples and discussion that the success of the linearized pseudo-second order model in fitting the data is misleading. Specific suggestions on appropriate adsorption data treatment are given. Full article
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9 pages, 1609 KiB  
Article
A Molecular View of the Surface Pressure/Area Per Lipid Isotherms Assessed by FTIR/ATR Spectroscopy
by E. Anibal Disalvo, Antonio Sebastian Rosa, Jimena P. Cejas and Maria A. Frias
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040054 - 11 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1490
Abstract
The macroscopic behavior of a lipid monolayer in terms of packing and compressibility properties is classically obtained from surface pressure/area per molecule isotherms. Molecular interpretations trying to fit the II/A curves have been attempted by molecular dynamics. In this regard, the simulation is [...] Read more.
The macroscopic behavior of a lipid monolayer in terms of packing and compressibility properties is classically obtained from surface pressure/area per molecule isotherms. Molecular interpretations trying to fit the II/A curves have been attempted by molecular dynamics. In this regard, the simulation is performed by introducing parameters accounting for the lipid-lipid interaction in the monolayer plane. However, water, as an essential component of the interfacial phenomena, is not explicitly included in terms of molecular arrays. This drawback appears to be a consequence of the lack of experimental evidence that may complement the macroscopic view with the microscopic features. In this work, we propose that II/A curves can be reproduced from microscopic molecular data obtained with FTIR/ATR spectroscopy. The changes in surface pressure, in fact, changes in the surface tension of the lipid–water interphase, can be related to the acyl regions exposed to water and evaluated by the ratio of isolated-to-connected CH2 populations. In turn, the area changes correspond to the variations in the primary and secondary hydration shells of the phosphate region. The isolated/connected CH2 ratio represents the extension of the non-polar region exposed to water and is linked to the resulting water surface tension. The area per lipid is determined by the excluded volume of the hydration shells around the phosphate groups in correlation to the carbonyl groups. The derivative of the frequencies of the -CH2 groups with respect to the water content gives an insight into the influence of water arrangements on the compressibility properties, which is important in understanding biologically relevant phenomena, such as osmotic stress in cells and the mechanical response of monolayers. It is concluded that the water population distributed around the different groups dominates, to a great extent, the physical properties of the lipid membranes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces)
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19 pages, 808 KiB  
Review
Marangoni Patterns in a Non-Isothermal Liquid with Deformable Interface Covered by Insoluble Surfactant
by Alexander B. Mikishev and Alexander A. Nepomnyashchy
Colloids Interfaces 2022, 6(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids6040053 - 29 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1579
Abstract
Marangoni patterns are created by instabilities caused by thermocapillary and solutocapillary stresses on the deformable free surface of a thin liquid layer. In the present paper, we consider the influence of the insoluble surfactant on the selection and modulational instability of stationary Marangoni [...] Read more.
Marangoni patterns are created by instabilities caused by thermocapillary and solutocapillary stresses on the deformable free surface of a thin liquid layer. In the present paper, we consider the influence of the insoluble surfactant on the selection and modulational instability of stationary Marangoni patterns near their onset threshold. The basic governing parameters of the problem are the Biot number characterizing the heat-transfer resistances of and at the surface, the Galileo number indicating the role of gravity via viscous forces, and the elasticity number specifying the influence of insoluble surfactant on the interfacial dynamics of the liquid. The paper includes a review of the previous results obtained in that problem as well as new ones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Colloids, Nanomaterials, and Interfaces)
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