Water Absorption Capacity Research Articles

Natural materials modified mud mortar for rubble stone masonry: An experimental and numerical study

Rubble stone masonry is a long-standing construction. However, its binding material and mud mortar exhibit shortcomings, including low tensile and shear strength and poor water resistance. To overcome these limitations, researchers have initiated investigations into modifying mud mortar, specifically focusing on the influence of natural materials on their performance. This study used straw (0-1wt%) and starch (0-7wt%) as modifiers for mud mortar. The modified mortar underwent compression, straight shear, split tensile, water immersion, and abrasion tests to investigate its mechanical properties and water resistance. Additionally, electron microscope scanning was employed to reveal the modification mechanism of mud mortar at the microstructural level. The study results showed that 0.5wt% straw/ 5wt% starch was the optimal blended mortar. In contrast, for compressive strength, tensile strength, cohesion, and water absorption capacity, starch was better than straw, and for internal friction angle and abrasion resistance, straw was better than starch. The modification mechanisms of both were bridging and gelling effects, respectively. Lastly, finite element numerical simulations were employed in this study to analyze how modified mud mortar influences the shear performance of rubble stone masonry walls. The results demonstrated that adding both straw and starch substantially enhanced the shear strength and ductility of the walls. Specifically, the additions of 0.5wt% straw and 5wt% starch increased the shear strength by 18.12% and 9.1% and the ductility by 8.48% and 0.83%, respectively. This study significantly advances low-carbon, green buildings, and sustainable development.

Konjac Glucomannan‐Based Edible Films: Method, Properties, and Applications

ABSTRACTKonjac glucomannan (KGm) has emerged as a promising candidate in the realm of sustainable packaging materials due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and unique chemical properties. Derived from the konjac plant tuber, KGm is primarily composed of glucose and mannose units linked by β‐1,4 glycosidic bonds, which impart high molecular weight, acetylation levels, and functional characteristics such as viscosity, gel‐forming ability, and water absorption capacity. In the food industry, KGm films serve as edible coatings on fruits and vegetables, extending shelf life by creating a protective barrier against moisture and oxygen. KGm‐based films are used in controlled release formulations, wound healing dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds. Various manufacturing techniques such as solvent casting, microfluidic spinning, and electrospinning are used to customize the mechanical properties and structure of KGm films for specific applications. Ongoing research aims to enhance water resistance and barrier properties through innovations such as composite formulations and cross‐linking methods. Looking ahead, further developments in KGm‐based edible films hold promise for addressing environmental concerns linked to traditional plastic packaging materials.

Enhancing high-performance concrete with local andesite and calcined marl: Insights from heat treatment and untreated conditions

This study explores the incorporation of local Algerian andesite and calcined marl as supplementary cementitious materials in high-performance concrete (HPC), with a special focus on the effects of heat treatment. Advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), were used for material characterization. The Sherbrooke method was utilized for mix design optimization, and thermal curing effects were critically evaluated. Key results demonstrated that both andesite and calcined marl significantly enhance HPC performance. Fresh mixtures showed excellent workability and consistent density. In the hardened state, these admixtures reduced porosity and water absorption capacity, improving durability. Heat-treated samples exhibited substantial early strength gains, while non-heat-treated samples showed superior long-term strength due to ongoing pozzolanic activity. Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements confirmed the high quality of the concrete. Tomography revealed a dense pore structure and strong interfacial transition zones, contributing to overall performance. Statistical modeling using the Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology validated the experimental findings and identified optimal conditions for maximizing compressive strength. Sulfuric acid exposure tests indicated good chemical resistance, with balanced performance in maintaining residual strengths and managing weight losses. This research underscores the potential of using local andesite and calcined marl to enhance HPC, promoting sustainable construction practices in Algeria by reducing reliance on imports and utilizing regional resources. In summary, this study contributes to sustainable HPC development by demonstrating the effectiveness of local mineral admixtures. The dual benefits of heat treatment for early strength gain and non-heat-treated conditions for long-term durability offer valuable insights for optimizing HPC formulations, advancing our understanding of pozzolanic materials, and promoting environmental stewardship and economic efficiency in the construction industry.

Preparation of a thermosensitive and antibacterial in situ gel using poloxamer-quaternized chitosan for sustained ocular delivery of Levofloxacin hydrochloride

In this study, a thermosensitive in situ gel with porous structure was developed using poloxamer (Po) and N-(2-hydroxy-3-trimethyl ammonium) propyl chitosan chloride (HTCC). The poloxamer-quaternized chitosan (Po-HTCC) in situ gel exhibited superior rheological property, water absorption capacity and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes, making it well-suited for ocular applications. Scanning electron microscope revealed a macroporous architecture with pore sizes ranging from 1 to 2 μm, suggesting that the gel has desirable breathability, corneal adhesion capability, and overall conformability. In vitro drug release assay was conducted with levofloxacin hydrochloride, demonstrating that sustained release over 48 h could be achieved at 34 °C, with approximately 80 % of the drug released within this timeframe. Computational simulations revealed substantial binding affinity between the material and the Escherichia coli outer membrane lipopolysaccharide-associated protein and corneal mucin. The protein showing the strongest binding energy to N-(2-hydroxy-3-trimethyl ammonium) propyl chitosan chloride (HTCC), as calculated by the Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area Method (MM-GBSA), was LptD-LptE, with a binding energy of −61.14 ± 4.72 kcal/mol. These results underscore the potential of this system for effective and convenient ocular delivery with sustained drug release.

Investigating the Multifaceted Changes in Physicochemical and Nutritional Attributes of Chicken-Based Nutri Cereal Mix under Cold Plasma Treatment

In this study multifaceted changes in physicochemical and nutritional properties of nutri-cereal mix (NCM) under cold plasma treatment (CPT) were investigated. In present investigation NCM was prepared and treated under CPT using a DBD-based plasma source for 5 min, 10 min, and 15 min at 9 kv. The results revealed that the water and oil absorbing capacity of cold plasma treated Nutri cereal mix (CPT-NCM) increased with increasing CPT time. The carbohydrate content in CPT-NCM decreased with increasing CPT time. From the colour analysis it was observed that the total colour difference (TCD) and whiteness index (WI) increased from 0.23 (NCM -5) to 0.97 (NCM -15), and 55.11 (NCM -5) to 56.08 (NCM -15), respectively. Additionally, the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis suggested that the thermostability of CPT-NCM is likely affected by NCM levels and changes in protein structure and conformation. The diffractograms and micrographs confirmed the crystallinity and microstructural changes in protein content, respectively. Amino acid profiling confirmed that NCM -10 comprises the higher amount of most of the analysed amino acids. Overall, the current study recommends that CPT enhances the physicochemical and nutritional properties of NCM, making it suitable for producing a variety of food products with improved quality characteristics.

Developing Innovative Nano-Engineered Lightweight Foamed Concrete Incorporating Iron Oxide (II, III) with Enhanced Mechanical and Transport Properties

Recently, scientists have focused substantial attention on the incorporation of nanoscale components in cement-based materials. Iron oxide (II, III) nanoparticles (IONPs) have garnered significant attention in nanoparticle research. This paper portrays preliminary discoveries of an investigation assessing the characteristics of foamed concrete (FC) with the presence of IONPs. A comprehensive assessment of characteristics was conducted, including its workability, axial compressive strength, bending strength, tensile strength, apparent porosity and water absorption capacity. Furthermore, scanning electron microscope examination was performed and evaluated. The results indicate a significant enhancement in the FC strength characteristics, with 28-day compressive, tensile, and bending strengths improving by up to 70, 76 and 52 %, respectively, with the inclusion of 3 % IONPs. Nonetheless, adding IONPs beyond 3 % did not yield significant improvements in mechanical properties. With a rise in IONPs from 1 to 5 %, the FC exhibited significant improvements in apparent porosity and water absorption. The decreasing pore size in FC containing IONPs was found to be the cause of the anomalies. A significant alteration in the arrangement of pore dimensions was noted in FC mixtures when the amounts of IONPs were modified. Results from this investigation emphasise the prospective benefits associated with integrating IONPs into FC, that could boost its entire characteristics.

Liquid-Water Transfer Coefficients of Porous Building Materials Under High-Humidity Conditions

The moisture transfer coefficient is a key parameter for analyzing the moisture-based physical properties of materials and studying the heat–moisture coupling process within building envelopes. The liquid-water transfer coefficient, as an important aspect of this process, plays a significant role, especially under high-humidity conditions. However, the global research on liquid-water transfer coefficients is still far from complete. To further enhance the research on liquid-water transfer coefficients, this study conducted capillary water absorption experiments on seven traditional and new porous building materials, focusing on testing the moisture transfer coefficients, primarily the liquid-water transfer coefficient. A novel analysis regarding the impact of sealing materials was proposed, based on the experimental results. Based on the experimental data, the concept of a critical value related to the variation in the capillary moisture content and the liquid-water diffusion coefficient was raised, and, building upon traditional empirical models, a completely new computational model was proposed. Data processing was carried out using methods such as variability analysis, correlation analysis, and nonlinear regression for model fitting. The research findings indicate the following: (1) The capillary water absorption rate and capacity of a material are influenced by its density and porosity. (2) In terms of sealing materials, self-adhesive films performed better than non-adhesive films. (3) The concept of critical capillary moisture content was proposed, based on the rate of change in the liquid-water diffusion coefficient. For the threshold of w ≤ 80%, a new calculation model with a higher correlation coefficient was proposed which can meet the calculation requirements of the diffusion coefficient under the vast majority of relative-humidity conditions.

The effect of infrared-assisted thermal and hydrothermal treatments on low-quality wheat flour obtained from tail-end passages and cracker quality

Low-quality wheat flour (LQF) is a by-product with high nutritional value but poor shelf life and technological properties. In this study, infrared (IR)-assisted thermal and hydrothermal treatments were applied to stabilize LQF and improve its functional properties. For the hydrothermal treatments, LQF was adjusted to 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% moisture content. Samples were processed at 800 W IR emitter power until moisture content dropped below 8%.While the treatments had little effect on the core composition of the flour, they led to an increase in its maximum, final, and setback viscosities. Thermal treatment increased water absorption and solvent retention capacity, shortened dough development time (DDT), and did not affect extensibility. Hydrothermal treatments, however, led to an increase in extension resistance and DDT. The 15% initial moisture content improved dough stability and extensibility, but these characteristics declined at higher moisture levels.In crackers produced from the treated flours, increasing initial moisture levels improved the spread ratio, though moisture levels of 25–30% reduced hardness and created a brittle texture. These findings revealed that varying initial moisture levels allowed for selective modifications in the stabilization of LQF, with acceptable changes in color and composition.

3D Bioprintable Self-Healing Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel with Cysteamine Grafting for Tissue Engineering

The abundance of hyaluronic acid (HA) in human tissues attracts its thorough research in tissue regenerating scaffolds and 3D bioprintable hydrogel preparation. Though methacrylation of HA can lead to photo-crosslinkable hydrogels, the catalyst has toxicity concerns, and the hydrogel is not suitable for creating stable complex 3D structures using extrusion 3D bioprinting. In this study, a dual crosslinking on methacrylated HA is introduced, using cysteamine-grafted HA and varying concentrations of 2-hydroxy ethyl acrylate. The resultant hydrogel is suitable for extrusion 3D printing (or bioprinting), mechanically robust, self-standing, stable in phosphate-buffered saline at 37 °C for more than 42 days, has high water absorption capacity with a low swelling ratio (1.5), and exhibits self-healing and adhesive properties. Complex 3D structures like ears and pyramid shapes with more than 2 cm of height are 3D printed using the optimized composition. All the synthesized hydrogels have shown nontoxicity and cell-supportiveness. Loading of cells, tetracycline, and bovine serum albumin into the hydrogel led to better bioink properties such as cell attachment, growth, and proliferation for osteoblast cells. The test results suggest that this hydrogel is biocompatible and has potential for 3D bioprinting of self-standing structures in bioink form in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Highly Performing Polysaccharide Hydrogels can Replace Acrylic Acid‐Based Superabsorbent Polymers in Sanitary Napkins

AbstractSuper absorbent polymers (SAPs) used in sanitary napkin are not required for water absorption capacity as high as in baby diapers and adult incontinence pads. Sanitary napkins must absorb menses, which is delivered at a significantly lower rate and overall daily amount than urines. Thus, the acrylic acid (AA) component can not be strictly necessary. By proper formulation design and processing, polysaccharide SAPs can be equally or even better performing than AA‐containing SAPs in sanitary napkins. Fully biodegradable sodium alginate (SA)‐based SAPs are prepared through ionic cross‐linking by CaCl2 and introduced in female pads. The optimal solution concentrations (SA 8% w/v, CaCl2 0.25% w/v in water) and reaction time are identified, and addition of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) at different weight contents (0–3 w%) is tested. Morphology, physico‐chemical properties, rheology, free swelling capacity (FSC), centrifuge retention capacity, and weight loss in soil are assessed. Increasing CNC content decreases FSC. Rheology results demonstrate higher storage and loss moduli for SA‐based SAPs versus commercial SAPs. The superior SA‐SAP developed is used in varying amounts for manufacturing sanitary napkin prototypes, revealing that excellent menstrual fluid absorption, surpassing commercial pads. Replacing AA‐based with polysaccharide‐based SAPs would reduce the environmental impact of hygienic product waste.

Progress and Innovations in Hydrogels for Sustainable Agriculture

The growing global demands for food security, efficient water use, and environmentally resilient agricultural strategies call for a sustainable agricultural revolution. Water scarcity, the excessive use of pesticides, and soil degradation are viewed as threats to food security. Hydrogels, three-dimensional hydrophilic polymer networks, appear to be revolutionary solutions for the future. Hydrogels have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing crop resilience, enhancing crop yields, and agribusiness productivity. The development and prospects of hydrogels bring about a revolution in sustainable agriculture by focusing on their unique properties, including excellent water absorption capacity, biodegradability, and controlled nutrient/agrochemical delivery. Hydrogels have the potential to transform traditional farming practices into novel crop varieties with improved traits like disease resistance, insect resistance, and drought resistance. Hydrogels enhance soil moisture retention, thereby facilitating seed germination and establishment. Thus, it has been demonstrated that hydrogel application has a significant impact on soil quality and resilience under challenging conditions. With this in mind, this review emphasizes that hydrogels are the way forward for sustainable agriculture, taking into consideration the economic benefits like reduced irrigation and increased crop yields while highlighting the need for regulatory considerations in terms of their safety, biodegradability, environmental impact, and long-term soil effects.

Redefining shortening: Systematically characterizing traditional and new enriched diacylglycerol shortening and exploring their impact on processing applications

Compared to lard-based shortenings, diacylglycerol (DAG)-based shortenings have demonstrated beneficial effects, such as lowering blood lipids, and reducing postprandial blood glucose levels. In this study, different chain-length DAG oils were blended with lower melting point peanut oil DAG oil (PO-DAG-oil). The blend ratios for the three types of DAG-based shortenings were determined based on the solid fat content (SFC) of lard. Subsequently, 1 % of various emulsifiers were added, and the crystallization properties, rheological and textural characteristics, polymorphism, microstructure, water-absorbing capacity, and plasticity of the four shortening systems were examined. The emulsifiers found to be suitable for lard shortening, long chain fatty acid DAG (LCD-shortening), medium chain fatty acid DAG (MCD-shortening), and medium and long chain fatty acid DAG (MLCD-shortening) were Span60, PGFE, PGFE, and MAG, respectively. Cakes baked using DAG-based shortenings exhibited superior textural properties compared to those made with lard-based shortenings, supporting the application of high-melting-point DAG oils in shortening formulations.

Development of 3D Printed Scaffolds Containing Decellularized Plants and Investigation of Their Basic Cell Interactions

The decellularization process fundamentally removes the cellular content of the tissue (nuclear material and other nucleic acid components) without disrupting the structural integrity of the tissue. It is an effective approach, especially for obtaining three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials composed of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides tissue biomechanical support. In the literature, studies have shown that after the decellularization process, animal-derived decellularized tissues have been combined with various biopolymers to prepare composite scaffolds using different techniques. In recent years, due to their structural features, decellularization studies of plant-derived tissues have also gained prominence alongside animal tissues. In this study, succulent plants were chosen as the plant tissue, and the purpose was to prepare hybrid scaffolds by combining decellularized succulent tissues with alginate structures. The study aimed to investigate the fundamental cell-material interactions and cartilage-specific differentiation parameters using mesenchymal stem cells. Succulent plant leaves were decellularized using a solution containing Triton X-100 and SDS. The water-retaining parts were separated from other tissues, lyophilized, and turned into a powder. This approach was employed to preserve biomolecules with water-retaining capacity in powdered form. To determine the efficiency of the decellularization process, the quantities of DNA and proteins were assessed and compared. Due to their high water-absorbing capacity, the succulent plants' water-retaining structures were combined with alginate biopolymer at various viscosity levels to prepare an ink suitable for 3D printing. After printing, the resulting scaffolds' degradation and swelling behavior, chemical composition, structural characterization, and thermal properties were examined. In the final phase, a fundamental investigation was carried out on cell-material interactions using L929 mouse fibroblast cells and human mesenchymal stem cells on 3D printed scaffolds. The interactions within the prepared hybrid scaffolds were analyzed through basic cytotoxicity tests.

Influence of fermentation period on the chemical and functional properties, antinutritional factors, and in vitro digestibility of white lima beans flour.

This study evaluated the variation in chemical and functional properties, antinutritional factors, and in vitro digestibility during the natural fermentation of white lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) at different fermentation periods of 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96h using standard methods. The results showed that an increase in the fermentation period resulted in a significant (p<0.05) increase in protein and ash content, while fiber and fat content decreased with the length of fermentation. Also, there was an optimum increase by 92%, 56.39%, and 58.16% in β-carotene, vitamin B2, and vitamin B3 at 24h fermentation. Results showed that the fermentation period increased the mineral composition except for sodium which had a slight reduction though no significant (p<0.05) difference was observed in the fermented samples. The antinutritional factors decreased linearly as fermentation progresses from 19.05-13.26mg/100g, 35.29-19.05mg/100g, 18.00-7.15mg/100g, and 3.09-1.35mg/100g for phytate, tannins, alkaloids, and oxalate, respectively. Fermentation significantly decreased the bulk densities, and swelling index, while water and oil absorption capacity, foaming properties, and emulsion capacities increased as fermentation progresses. Furthermore, protein digestibility improved from 50.33% to 58.50% and the glycemic index (GI) increased significantly (p<0.05) with GI values of 57.18, 62.36, 62.67, and 62.82 for 24, 48, 72, and 96h, respectively. This implies that these are all intermediate GI foods. This study showed that fermentation periods influence the quality of lima beans and this can be used to improve nutrition especially in the rural communities and find applications in food product development. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Lima beans are underutilized crops in comparison with other legumes. This is attributed to problems associated with digestion on consumption and its long hours in cooking described as "hard to cook" phenomenon which is reported to be attributed to the presence of significant amount of antinutrients such as tannins and phytates. The nutritional value of lima beans will be increased, along with their acceptance and consumption as food, by the reduction or inactivation of these antinutritional factors.

Effect of ultrasonic treatment on the structure and functional properties of protein-fortified potato powder

Potato powder has substantial nutritional value and gluten-free protein, making it an ideal ingredient in gluten-free foods that meet the dietary requirements of individuals with gluten allergies. However, the absence of gluten protein limits the processing and utilization of potato powder-based products. Different levels of power density (1–5 W/cm3) was used on potato powder enriched with whey protein and determine the impact of structural and functional characteristics by CLSM, FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, low-field nuclear magnetic resonance and thermogravimetric analyses. The results showed that ultrasonic treatment destroyed the structures of starch and protein in protein-fortified potato powder, resulting in smaller starch granules. Compared with the blank group, the amylose content increased by 0.13-fold, relative crystallinity (RC) increased to 15.9%, water absorption capacity increased by 36% and oil absorption capacity increased by 112.5%. Ultrasonic treatment increased the contents of disulfide bonds, α-helices and β-sheets in protein-enhanced potato powder; improved the strength and construction rate of the protein network structure; promote the transformation of immobilized-water to bound-water and reduce the water mobility of dough and increased the hardness of protein-enhanced potato powder gel by 1.5-fold. In contrast, excessive ultrasonic power had a negative effect while consuming energy.

Dimensional analysis of absorbency in paper towels: A study of three- and two-dimensional mechanisms

The dimensional absorbency properties of paper towels were studied, focusing on three- and two-dimensional absorption mechanisms. Key factors affecting these absorption mechanisms were identified through a series of experiments and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the water absorption capacity, driven by capillary action (porosity), exhibited differences between two-dimensional surface absorption (in the X and Y directions) and three-dimensional bulk absorption (including the Z direction, or thickness). Porosity analysis revealed that three-dimensional absorbency is highly correlated with porosity, whereas two-dimensional absorbency has a relatively low correlation and is influenced by fiber properties such as length and width, as well as mass-related characteristics including fines content and freeness. The findings highlight the need to balance these dimensional properties to achieve optimal absorbency in paper towel products. Additionally, this study provides a foundation for developing more efficient paper towels and offers valuable insights into the complex mechanisms of paper towel absorbency, which will aid in the development of improved hygiene paper products.

Crosslinked lignin starch copolymer as a sustainable and thermally stable drilling fluid controller

Fluid loss is a well-known challenge of drilling operations. In this work, a novel sustainable starch-lignin-based polymer was synthesized for possible use in drilling fluid applications. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirmed that kraft lignin was crosslinked with starch via ether covalent bonds. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the loss of crystallinity in starch and emerging of new amorphous structures in crosslinked starch-lignin (CSL) polymers after crosslinking with lignin. The incorporation of lignin and new covalent ether bonds improved the thermal stability of starch. The CSL had a rougher surface morphology, higher hydrophilicity, and significantly higher water absorption than starch. CSL-2, with its higher lignin content, demonstrated higher hydrophilicity, better water absorption capacity, and thermal stability than CSL-1. The rheology analysis of the CSL-2 polymer suggested that crosslinking starch with lignin would increase G′ more than G" and reduce tan δ of the polymer solution, resulting in more elastic properties and more stability against the angular frequency. Due to its improved swelling, thermal, and rheological properties as compared to native starch, the produced sustainable lignin-starch copolymer could be used as a new viscosity and rheology modifier, such as a fluid loss controller for oil extraction from wells.

Surface modification of sepiolite and its application in one-component silicone potting adhesive

Abstract In this study, the utilization of sepiolite (SEP), renowned for its remarkable water absorption capacity, in a one-component silicone potting adhesive was explored to evaluate its impact on the efficacy of tunnel crack injection adhesive. Initially, SEP underwent high-temperature calcination, and X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric tests were conducted to analyze the influence of calcination on its crystal structure and water-absorption capacity, respectively. Following this, various coupling agents were employed to modify the SEP, and their respective impacts on the performance of the tunnel crack-filling adhesive were investigated. The outcomes revealed that KH550 exhibited the most effective modification. Subsequent analysis delved into the effect of varying the dosage of KH550 on adhesive performance, demonstrating optimal cost-effectiveness at a dosage of 2 phr. Furthermore, a comparative assessment of the adhesive’s performance in wet and dry interfaces revealed that the addition of SEP resulted in comparable bond strength between wet and dry interfaces, indicating minimal influence from the wet interface.

Biological and structural properties of curcumin-loaded graphene oxide incorporated collagen as composite scaffold for bone regeneration.

To address the challenges related to bone defects, including osteoinductivity deficiency and post-implantation infection risk, this study developed the collagen composite scaffolds (CUR-GO-COL) with multifunctionality by integrating the curcumin-loaded graphene oxide with collagen through a freeze-drying-cross-linking process. The morphological and structural characteristics of the composite scaffolds were analyzed, along with their physicochemical properties, including water absorption capacity, water retention rate, porosity, in vitro degradation, and curcumin release. To evaluate the biocompatibility, cell viability, proliferation, and adhesion capabilities of the composite scaffolds, as well as their osteogenic and antimicrobial properties, in vitro cell and bacterial assays were conducted. These assays were designed to assess the impact of the composite scaffolds on cell behavior and bacterial growth, thereby providing insights into their potential for promoting osteogenesis and inhibiting infection. The CUR-GO-COL composite scaffold with a CUR-GO concentration of 0.05% (w/v) exhibits optimal biological compatibility and stable and slow curcumin release rate. Furthermore, in vitro cell and bacterial tests demonstrated that the prepared CUR-GO-COL composite scaffolds enhance cell viability, proliferation and adhesion, and offer superior osteogenic and antimicrobial properties compared with the CUR-GO composite scaffold, confirming the osteogenesis promotion and antimicrobial effects. The introduction of CUR-GO into collagen scaffold creates a bone-friendly microenvironment, and offers a theoretical foundation for the design, investigation and utilization of multifunctional bone tissue biomaterials.

Study on the Structural Changes of Boneless Chicken Claw Collagen and Its Effect on Water Retention Performance.

The purpose of this study was to explore the water retention mechanism of chicken claws by detecting the structural changes in collagen in boneless chicken claws under different expansion rates. Firstly, boneless chicken claw collagen with different expansion rates (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%) was extracted by the acid-enzyme complex method, and the changes in collagen were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), circular dichroism (CD), low-field nuclear magnetic resonance LF-NMR) and surface hydrophobicity to explore the mechanism that leads to changes in the water retention performance. The results of scanning electron microscopy showed that with the increase in the expansion rate, collagen molecules showed curling, shrinking, breaking and crosslinking, forming a loose and irregular pore-like denatured collagen structure. UV analysis showed that the maximum absorption wavelength of chicken claw collagen was blue shifted under different expansion rates, and the maximum absorption peak intensity increased first and then decreased with the increase in expansion rate. The FTIR results showed that collagen had obvious characteristic absorption peaks in the amide A, B, I, II and III regions under different expansion rates, and that the intensity and position of the characteristic absorption peaks changed with the expansion rate. The results of the CD analysis showed that collagen at different expansion rates had obvious positive absorption peaks at 222 nm, and that the position of negative absorption peaks was red shifted with the increase in expansion rate. This shows that the expansion treatment makes the collagen of chicken claw partially denatured, and that the triple helix structure becomes relaxed or unwound, which provides more space for the combination of water molecules, thus enhancing the water absorption capacity of boneless chicken claw. The results of the surface hydrophobicity test showed that the surface hydrophobicity of boneless chicken claw collagen increased with the increase in expansion rate and reached the maximum at a 30% expansion rate, and then decreased with the further increase in the expansion rate. The results of LF-NMR showed that the water content of boneless chicken claws increased significantly after the expansion treatment, and that the water retention performance of chicken claws was further enhanced with the increase in the expansion rate. In this study, boneless chicken claws were used as raw materials, and the expansion process of boneless chicken claws was optimized by acid combined with a water-retaining agent, which improved the expansion rate of boneless chicken claws and the quality of boneless chicken claws. The effects of the swelling degree on the collagen structure, water absorption and water retention properties of boneless chicken claws were revealed by structural characterization. These findings explain the changes in the water retention of boneless chicken claws after expansion. By optimizing the expansion treatment process, the water retention performance and market added value of chicken feet products can be significantly improved, which is of great economic significance.