Multiscale engineering of deep eutectic solvent-plasticized starch-based carriers: From molecular interactions to...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Food Science

Background:

• Traditional gelatin capsules face challenges with high costs and poor mechanical properties.
• Pure starch capsules also exhibit limitations in mechanical performance.
• There is a need for economical, green, and enhanced-performance edible capsule materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an intelligent responsive composite starch capsule with improved properties.
• To utilize biomass-derived functional food materials for capsule preparation.
• To enhance the mechanical strength and functionality of starch-based capsules.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of Betaine-glycerol/hydroxypropyl starch-gelatin (B-G/HPS-Ge) composite films.
• Mechanical testing (tensile strength, elongation at break).
• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) for thermal analysis.
• Evaluation of capsule properties (loss on drying, disintegration, friability).
• Assessment of pH-responsiveness and hydrogen-bond network analysis (RDG).

Main Results:

• B-G/HPS-Ge capsules showed a 6.09% increase in tensile strength and a 28.77% increase in elongation at break compared to G/HPS-Ge.
• DSC confirmed successful plasticization by plasticizer addition, lowering T_g and T_m.
• Capsule properties met Chinese Pharmacopoeia standards.
• Demonstrated significant pH-responsive behavior.
• RDG analysis revealed a stronger hydrogen-bond network in B-G/HPS-Ge due to enhanced interaction with the starch matrix.

Conclusions:

• The developed B-G/HPS-Ge composite starch capsule is economical, green, and offers enhanced performance.
• The material exhibits improved mechanical properties and meets pharmacopoeia standards.
• The study provides a novel approach for developing intelligent responsive starch-based edible carriers.