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Injection-molded nanocomposites and materials based on wheat gluten
S-W Cho1, M Gällstedt, E Johansson
1Fibre and Polymer Technology, Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|November 2, 2010
Summary
This study explores injection molding of wheat gluten (WG) materials, finding it a promising method for creating WG objects. Adding glycerol and montmorillonite clay improved processability and mechanical properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Engineering
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Wheat gluten (WG) is an underutilized protein source with potential for material applications.
- Developing efficient processing methods for WG-based materials is crucial for their commercial viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and characteristics of injection molding WG-based materials.
- To evaluate the effect of glycerol and montmorillonite clay on the processability and properties of injection-molded WG.
Main Methods:
- Wheat gluten (WG) was compounded with glycerol (plasticizer) and montmorillonite clay.
- Materials were compression molded into plates, pelletized, and then processed via injection molding.
- Material characterization included X-ray, transmission electron microscopy, IR spectroscopy, protein solubility, and mechanical testing.
Main Results:
- Intercalated clay and good platelet dispersion were observed.
- Optimal glycerol content (20-30 wt.%) balanced processability and mechanical properties.
- Montmorillonite clay enhanced processability, plate homogeneity, and tensile stiffness.
- Injection molding resulted in a highly aggregated protein structure.
Conclusions:
- Injection molding is a viable and promising technique for producing wheat gluten (WG) objects.
- The addition of glycerol and montmorillonite clay significantly improves the processability and mechanical performance of WG materials.
- The processing induces significant structural changes in the WG, leading to aggregation.
