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Welan gum: microbial production, characterization, and applications.
Varinder Kaur1, Manav B Bera1, Parmjit S Panesar1
1Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Longowal 148106, Punjab, India.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|February 11, 2014
Summary
Welan gum, a microbial exopolysaccharide, offers versatile applications due to its unique properties. This review details its production, characterization, and industrial uses, particularly in cement systems.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Polymer Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microbial exopolysaccharides are high-molecular-weight natural polymers with diverse industrial applications.
- Welan gum, a notable exopolysaccharide, is produced via fermentation by Alcaligenes sp.
- Its tetrasaccharide backbone comprises l-mannose, l-rhamnose, d-glucose, and d-glucuronic acid.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the microbial production, purification, recovery, and characterization of welan gum.
- To explore the biosynthesis and factors influencing welan gum production and properties.
- To highlight the various applications of welan gum, especially in cement systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published research on welan gum.
- Analysis of biosynthesis pathways and production parameters.
- Examination of characterization techniques and application data.
Main Results:
- Welan gum exhibits thickening, suspending, binding, emulsifying, stabilizing, and viscosifying properties.
- It is a valuable biopolymer with significant commercial use in cement formulations.
- Factors affecting production and properties are crucial for optimizing its performance.
Conclusions:
- Welan gum is a versatile microbial polysaccharide with substantial industrial relevance.
- Understanding its production and properties is key to expanding its applications.
- Further research can optimize its use in various sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
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