Electrospinning Equipment: From molecular modification and matrix enhancement to possible encapsulation-related functional food applications

Modification methods of silk fibroin materials in food applications

Molecular modification: Molecular modification of silk fibroin by extraction, mixing, self-assembly, enzyme catalysis and other methods can adjust its physical and chemical properties and enhance its functions. For example, enzyme catalysis can promote cross-linking between silk fibroin molecules and improve its stability.

Matrix enhancement strategy: Nano, submicron, micron or block-shaped silk fibroin-based materials can be prepared by freeze drying, spray drying, electrospinning/electrospray and other technologies. These technologies can improve the processing and application properties of silk fibroin.

Application of electrospinning equipment in the preparation of modified silk fibroin materials

Preparation of nanofiber structure: Electrospinning equipment can prepare silk fibroin nanofibers with specific structures and properties. These nanofibers can be used to construct more refined food material structures and further optimize their performance. For example, silk fibroin nanofibers prepared by electrospinning technology can be compounded with nutrients or bioactive substances to form composite materials with better performance.

Regulating the microstructure of materials: Electrospinning technology can precisely control the diameter and morphology of nanofibers by adjusting parameters such as the concentration, viscosity, and electric field strength of the spinning solution. This allows the pore structure and pore size of modified silk fibroin materials to be precisely regulated, thereby better meeting the needs of food applications.

Loading bioactive substances: Electrospinning equipment can prepare nanofiber materials loaded with bioactive molecules. For example, bioactive substances that promote nutrient absorption or have specific functions are loaded into silk fibroin nanofibers, and the release rate is controlled to achieve the continuous effect of bioactive substances in food.

Summary

In summary, there are various modification methods for silk fibroin materials in food applications, and electrospinning equipment provides strong technical support for their preparation. Through electrospinning technology, nanofiber materials with specific structures and properties can be prepared, and the performance of modified silk fibroin materials can be further optimized to improve their effects in food applications.

Electrospinning Nanofibers Article Source:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.137964