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Engineering rheological response in chitosan-sophorolipid systems through controlled interactions
S Pingali1, A M Benhur1, S Amin1
1Chemical Engineering Department, Manhattan College, 4513 Manhattan College Parkway, Riverdale, NY, 10471, USA.
International Journal of Cosmetic Science
|June 13, 2020
Summary
Chitosan enhances biosurfactant sophorolipid viscosity through synergistic interactions. Modifying electrolyte concentration and pH alters the chitosan-sophorolipid system's rheological properties, creating tunable gel-like networks.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biochemistry
- Rheology
Background:
- Biosurfactants like sophorolipid (SL) exhibit low viscosity individually.
- Biopolymers such as chitosan can modify the properties of other substances.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing new materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the rheological impact of chitosan on sophorolipid.
- To examine how ionization and electrolyte addition affect the chitosan-sophorolipid system.
Main Methods:
- Rotation mechanical rheometry was employed.
- Frequency sweeps analyzed low-frequency rheological properties.
- Bulk viscosity was measured at high shear rates.
Main Results:
- Chitosan addition significantly increased the viscosity and viscoelasticity of sophorolipid, indicating synergy.
- Electrolytes initially increased chitosan viscosity but decreased chitosan-sophorolipid viscosity due to charge screening.
- Increased pH enhanced synergistic interactions between chitosan and sophorolipid.
Conclusions:
- Strong charge interactions between chitosan and sophorolipid form a gel-like network, increasing system viscosity.
- Biopolymer concentration, electrolyte presence, and ionic strength are key factors for tuning rheological properties.
