Andi Johnson
Abstract
This study has investigated the environmental effects of the decomposition of zein nanoparticles in adsorbents in the petrochemical industry. Zein is a fibrous and protein polymer that ...
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This study has investigated the environmental effects of the decomposition of zein nanoparticles in adsorbents in the petrochemical industry. Zein is a fibrous and protein polymer that has a small amount of acidic and basic amino acids, but is rich in amides, leucine, proline, and alanine. This protein is found in corn germ, is commercially extracted from corn gluten by alcohol, and is a byproduct of the bioethanol industry. Zein particles in the diameter range of 1-2 micrometers are called the main proteins of corn spores. Three separate components of zein including α,ᵝ and ᴽ zein can be identified by their different solubility in alcohol solutions. Commercial zein is a mixture of proteins with different molecular mass, solubility, and charges. Biodegradable polymers from renewable sources have attracted a lot of attention due to their positive impact on the economy and the environment. Since oil resources are running out, new energy sources are needed. Therefore, more attention has been drawn to the conversion of biomaterials into useful products.
