Abstract
Two alginates with different viscosities (ƞ-low and ƞ-high) were used to study the effects of processing conditions (pH, addition of sodium chloride, addition of CaCl2, mixing speed, mixing temperature, gelation time, gelation temperature) on the viscosity of sodium alginate solutions and the properties of wet calcium alginate films. No differences in the monomeric fractions proportion (M/R ratio) between alginates were observed. ƞ-high presented higher values of estimated average length of G- and MG-blocks than ƞ-low alginate. The viscosity of the alginate solution was increased in the presence of calcium traces. The impact of CaCl2 addition on alginate viscosity was much stronger for ƞ-low alginate. However, no improvement of the mechanical properties was observed. The presence of NaCl in alginate solutions also increased the viscosity and had a negative impact on the puncture properties of calcium alginate films. On the contrary, the use of high mixing speeds resulted in less viscous sodium alginate solutions and stronger films. Finally, the use of neutral pH values and refrigeration temperatures during the co-extrusion process would be advisable in order to prevent a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of alginate films.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
