Artículos (Ingeniería Química)

URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://hdl.handle.net/11441/53665

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Effect of deacetylation degree and molecular weight on surface properties of chitosan obtained from biowastes
(Elsevier, 2023-04) Carrera Sánchez, Cecilio; Bengoechea Ruiz, Carlos; Carrillo de la Fuente, Francisco; Calero Romero, Nuria; Ingeniería Química; Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla; AGR211: Ciencia y Tecnología de Sistemas Dispersos; TEP229: Tecnología y Diseño de Productos Multicomponentes; TEP133: Racionalización Energ. en Procesos de Transf. de Materia; TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides
A surface characterization of two types of unmodified chitosan properties with different molecular weight (MW) and deacetylation degree (DD) was carried out in terms of polymer concentration (a concentration lower than the saturation, the saturation concentration and a supersaturated concentration). The modification of the production conditions allowed to obtain chitosan samples with different properties (MW and DD), which eventually determined its surface activity. Thus, a kind of tailor-made chitosan may be designed to be adapted to different applications. Surface activity has been analysed by mean of measurements of surface tension, dilatational and shear rheology. The results have demonstrated that chitosan possessed a good surface activity at high ionic strength. Also, the increase in the concentration of chitosan in the solution, and the increase in molecular weight (and, therefore, a decrease in the degree of deacetylation) favoured the formation of aggregates, which improved the adsorption kinetics. The latter allowed adequate elasticity values to be reached more quickly. These properties are reached faster for the higher molecular weight chitosan (lower degree of deacetylation), due to the more hydrophobic character that facilitates the interactions between the adsorbed aggregates. Surface rheology revealed a predominantly elastic behaviour of chitosan film. All of these results strengthen the idea that chitosan behaves as a surface-active hydrophilic Pickering agent.
Influence of a shear post-treatment on rheological properties, microstructure and physical stability of emulgels formed by rosemary essential oil and a fumed silica
(Elsevier, 2019-01) Santos García, Jenifer; Jiménez, Manuel; Calero Romero, Nuria; Alfaro Rodríguez, María del Carmen; Muñoz García, José; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides
Nanoemulsions containing rosemary essential oil, a natural food preservative, were developed by the microfluidization technique and emulgels were formed by adding a fumed silica (Aerosil 200). The influence of homogenization pressure on droplet size was examined. The nanoemulsion prepared at 5000 psi in Microfluidizer showed the lowest Sauter diameter and it was selected as the starting point. The influence of shear on rheological properties, stability and microstructure was studied for both the nanoemulsion and the emulgel formed. The emulsion showed recoalescence induced by shear, while the emulgel exhibited an alignment of a 3D-network. In addition, the prepared emulgel exhibited time-dependent behaviour. In spite of the fact that the viscoelastic functions of the emulgel decreased as a result of shear, a significant improvement in physical stability was detected by means of the Multiple Light Scattering technique.
Development of eco-friendly emulsions produced by microfluidization technique
(Elsevier, 2016-04-25) Santos García, Jenifer; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Calero Romero, Nuria; Alfaro Rodríguez, María del Carmen; Muñoz García, José; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Universidad de Sevilla; TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides
Green solvents have recently attracted much attention due to the necessity of replacing traditional solvents. In this work, a mixture of eco-friendly solvents and a green surfactant have been utilized in emulsions with a potential use for agrochemicals. Results obtained show that the Microfluidizer® was capable of producing very fine nanoemulsions (D₃ ᷂ ₂ = 280 nm).This contribution has demonstrated the significant role of the rheology to understand the destabilization processes which occur in emulsions with very similar DSD. Thus, we found the optimum homogenization pressure was 1034 bar (15,000 psi) on account of the lack of creaming and of low coalescence.
Dual Biopolymer Systems for Structuring Oil-in-Water Emulsions: Engineering Insights into Phycocyanin Chia Mucilage Mixtures
(Elsevier, 2025-06-03) Vela Albarrán, María; Calero Romero, Nuria; Carrillo de la Fuente, Francisco; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides; TEP133: Racionalización Energ. en Procesos de Transf. de Materia
This study investigates the interfacial and rheological properties of algae oil-in-water emulsions stabilized individually by phycocyanin and chia mucilage, as well as their 50:50 mixture. Interfacial shear rheology revealed that phycocyanin forms a viscoelastic film over time, while chia mucilage stabilizes the interface more rapidly but with lower moduli. In the mixed system, phycocyanin predominates at the interface, although steric hindrance delays film formation. Droplet with a diameter of approximately 1.5 µm in phycocyanin-stabilized emulsions were obtained. The intermediate size range (2.4 µm) was observed in the mixture, while the largest droplets (4.4 µm) were observed in chia mucilage emulsions. Rheological assessments demonstrated that chia mucilage significantly increased viscosity (k = 0.174 Pa·sⁿ, n = 0.37) and imparted substantial elastic behavior, whereas emulsions stabilized exclusively by phycocyanin exhibited predominantly viscous characteristics (k = 0.043 Pa·sⁿ, n = 0.69, negligible elastic modulus). Stability assessments confirmed that chia mucilage suppressed creaming for up to 14 days, while phycocyanin alone was less effective. The combined system achieved a balance, providing moderate droplet size reduction and improved long-term structural stability. The present findings underscore the complementary roles of protein/polysaccharide-based biopolymers in the design of functional emulsions, which have potential applications in the food and cosmeceutical industries.
Encapsulation of β-carotene in emulgels-based delivery systems formulated with sweet fennel oil
(Elsevier, 2019-02) Santos García, Jenifer; Alfaro Rodríguez, María del Carmen; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Calero Romero, Nuria; Muñoz García, José; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides
An emulgel-based delivery system formulated with sweet fennel essential oil was developed for the encapsulation of β-carotene. Emulgels were stabilized by using a mixed emulsifier system consisting of fumed silica particles (Aerosil 200) and a green surfactant (Amidet-N). The influence of the microfluidization conditions on mean droplet sizes and the effect of the fumed silica concentration on the physical stability and rheological properties of emulgels were investigated. The emulgel that presented better physical stability was that formulated with 5 g/100 g fumed silica due to the role of Aerosil 200 as Pickering stabilizer and its enhanced rheological properties. The resulting β-carotene-loaded emulgels successfully protected the encapsulated bioactive ingredient throughout the storage period.
Relationship of rheological and microstructural properties with physical stability of potato protein-based emulsions stabilized by guar gum
(Elsevier, 2015-02) Santos García, Jenifer; Calero Romero, Nuria; Guerrero Conejo, Antonio Francisco; Muñoz García, José; Ingeniería Química; Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla; TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides; TEP229: Tecnología y Diseño de Productos Multicomponentes
Despite potato protein is a great potential ingredient in food products due to its nutritional quality, it is not useful for the formation of sufficiently stable emulsions. For this reason, a widely used polysaccharide in the food industry, Guar gum, was added. The addition of guar gum to potato protein-based emulsions results in enhanced stability as demonstrated by the cooperative information provided by the combination of different techniques (rheology, optical microscopy and multiple light scattering). We established a relationship between a critical time for the onset of creaming and two rheological functions, namely the zero shear viscosity and the storage modulus. In addition, we propose a fast rheological method consisting of non-linear creep tests to detect shear-induced microstructural transitions.
Zein as a basis of green plastic materials: Modifications, applications, and processing
(Elsevier, 2025-10-12) Alsadat-Seyedbokaei, Fahimeh; Félix Ángel, Manuel; Bengoechea Ruiz, Carlos; Ingeniería Química; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; TEP229: Tecnología y Diseño de Productos Multicomponentes
A growing amount of corn (i.e., approximately 40 % of all corn produced) is being employed for bioethanol production, resulting in zein as a byproduct. Zein is a hydrophobic storage protein that represents 60–80 % of corn proteins and has been processed into several films, coatings and plastic materials. Common petroleum- derived plastics are being replaced by greener alternatives due to environmentally related issues caused by global plastic pollution. In this sense, materials based on zein benefit from their low production cost, biode gradability, biocompatibility, and hypoallergenicity. Moreover, the uniqueness of zein lies in its hydrophobicity and strong thermoplastic behaviour, which eases its processing compared with most proteins, which typically degrade or crosslink at similar temperature ranges. The present review discusses the main applications within the global plastic industry pursued for zein, mainly films, coatings, fibre mats, and adhesives for the food, phar maceutical and medical fields. These plastic materials are obtained through different processing techniques, which are also reviewed, such as extrusion, injection moulding, electrospinning, solvent casting, or 3D printing. Already being used commercially in food and pharmaceutical coatings, films and binders for plastics, packaging and textile products, there are still some issues to solve related to their poor strength, high brittleness and instability. Overcoming these drawbacks remains a challenge for broadening the application of zein-based ma terials, supporting greater sustainability in the plastic industry
Effect of citric acid on porcine plasma protein bioplastics processed through injection moulding
(Elsevier, 2023-08-26) Álvarez-Castillo, Estefanía; Santana Romero, Ismael; Gómez, José; Bengoechea Ruiz, Carlos; Guerrero Conejo, Antonio Francisco; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP229: Tecnología y Diseño de Productos Multicomponentes
The replacement of petrochemicals by biopolymers in the production of plastics has some limitations, such as the poorer mechanical properties of the latter. Thus, when using porcine plasma protein (PPP) as raw material for developing bioplastics, the use of strengthening agents is required. Common additives currently used for that purpose, such as glutaraldehyde, negatively impact the biodegradability and toxicity of those materials. This study evaluates the effect of a green crosslinker like citric acid (CA) on PPP-based bioplastics. Therefore, using glycerol (gly) as a plasticizer, CA was added to the blend at different contents (0, 2.5, 5, 10%), either keeping the PPP/gly or (PPP+CA)/gly ratios at 1/1. Then, blends were injection moulded into biodegradable plastics, for which both mechanical properties and thermal stability improved as CA content was higher, as water absorption was hindered. However, it increased as CA content got higher, due to the acidification of the immersion media, but being always lower than the system without crosslinker. These findings suggest that citric acid, a natural, non-toxic, and abundant substance, could replace synthetic crosslinking agents in the development of PPP-based bioplastics
Designing Spoonable Milk Kefir Gels: From Fermentation Optimization to Clean-Label Gel Structuring with Psyllium
(MDPI, 2025-09-01) Cardenete-Fernández, María; Castillo-Rivas, Alicia; Durán-Barrantes, María de la Montaña; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Santos García, Jenifer; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides
Kefir is a fermented dairy product whose structural properties can be modified to enhance its nutritional and sensory profile. The objective of this study was to develop spoonable milk kefir gels by optimizing fermentation conditions and incorporating psyllium and calcium chloride as structuring agents. In the initial phase of the study, a full factorial design was employed to conduct a comparative analysis of whole milk and skimmed milk during the fermentation process of kefir. The study encompassed the evaluation of the impact of various parameters, including inoculum level, temperature, and fermentation time, on the acidification kinetics of the fermentation process. This evaluation was facilitated through the measurement of pH and total acidity levels. Skimmed milk demonstrated accelerated acidification, consistently attaining a final pH of 4.08 and a total acidity of 9.99 g·L⁻¹ lactic acid equivalents under optimized conditions (5.5% weight:weight grains, 26 °C, 24 h). In the subsequent phase, kefir obtained under these conditions was gelled with varying concentrations of psyllium and calcium chloride. Rheological characterization revealed that psyllium markedly strengthened the gel network: at 3.06% w:w psyllium, the elastic modulus increased up to 209.6 Pa, while the critical stress improved from 0.64 Pa at low psyllium/Ca²⁺ to 10.42 Pa at high psyllium content. Furthermore, zero-shear viscosity increased substantially, exceeding 1500 Pa·s in high-psyllium, low-calcium formulations. The findings demonstrate that combining fermentation optimization with clean-label structuring agents enables the development of low-fat kefir gels with enhanced textural and processing properties, supporting their potential as synbiotic, functional dairy products.
Increasing the added-value of a plant-based waste: model salad dressing based on an emulgel containing microfluidized hull pea fiber
(John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2025) García González, María del Carmen; Alfaro Rodríguez, María del Carmen; Lobo Llamas, Carlos; Muñoz García, José; Ingeniería Química; Junta de Andalucía
BACKGROUND: Changes in consumer habits have driven the food industry to develop new recipes based on organic ingredients. Furthermore, the use of waste-derived plant-based raw materials, such as pea hull fibers, is consistent with sustainable development. In this work, we report on the production and the physical characterization of an emulgel-based salad dressing containing chia oil and a microfluidized suspension of pea hull fiber. RESULTS: We determined the rheological properties, particle size distribution, physical stability, and microstructure of the emulgel produced. The sample microstructure was studied by means of (a) optical microscopy using polarizing light and bright-field illumination and (b) laser diffraction. The microstructure consisted of a microfluidized oil-in-water emulsion containing oil droplets embedded in a microfluidized pea fiber suspension. According to multiple light scattering results, the microfluidized emulsion was creamed in a few hours, while the emulgel remained stable for more than 60 days. The slight decrease in the storage and loss viscoelastic moduli of the mechanical spectra with aging time may be related to the onset of a fiber reaggregated process. Non-linear creep compliance data revealed that the emulgel studied exhibited very shear thinning behavior with a practical yield stress of 10 Pa. CONCLUSIONS: Microfluidized pea hull fiber suspension can be used as the only stabilizer of the salad dressing based on an emulgel microstructure. It can provide acceptable physical stability and appropriate rheological properties for pumping and handling. The developed emulgel-based salad dressing exhibits physicochemical and engineering properties compatible with commercial applications.
Use of protein-based matrices as amino acids source in in-vitro grapevine
(Taylor & Francis LTD, 2024-01-22) Jiménez Rosado, Mercedes; Rodríguez Declet, Arleen; Negri, Paola; Guerrero Conejo, Antonio Francisco; Romero García, Alberto; Domenico Rombolà, Adamo; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
Proteins are sources of peptides and amino acids which are able to stimulate plant growth. Protein-based matrices are a novel source of these raw materials since they allow their availability in small, prolonged doses, which could be of interest in in-vitro assays. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the use of soy protein-based matrices in in-vitro cultures of grape, cv. Magliocco Canino. Their influence was assessed in different media conditions in the presence or absence of zinc (an essential microelement for plant growth). The shoots were evaluated after 35 days of growth based on their growth parameters (weight increase, number of stems, number of leaves, stem and internode length). A biochemical profile of the shoots cultivated in different media was obtained by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results highlighted the benefits of using protein-based matrices in in-vitro culture as shoots showed an increase in weight, number of leaves, and longer stems, also in zinc-deficient media. In conclusion, this work emphasises the potential of protein-based matrices as stimulants for grapevine explants. This could have important implications for the cultivation of these crops and could be the starting point for further studies on the stimulating effect of different proteins on crops.
Verification and validation of the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mediated enzymatic cross-linking in collagen/PEG hydrogels for wound dressing applications
(Elsevier, 2025-11) González, Luisbel; Ruiz, Isleidy; Valerio, Oscar; Aguayo, Claudio; Toledo, Jorge R.; Romero García, Alberto; Serrano, Jonathan; Quiroz, Aracelly; Fernández, Katherina; Ingeniería Química; Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico (FONDECYT). Chile; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
Collagen/poly(ethylene glycol) (COL/PEG) hydrogels are attractive wound dressings but typically rely on weak hydrogen bonding at the polymer interface. Here, a catechol–enzymatic strategy is introduced in which dopamine (DA) self-polymerization reduces graphene oxide to conductive rGO while horseradish peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide (HRP/H2O2) catalyzes covalent coupling between native PEG hydroxyls and collagen phenolic residues. Spectroscopic and thermo-mechanical signatures, attenuation of –OH/amide bands in FTIR, a glass-transition shift from −9 °C to −4 °C, increased storage modulus with elastic dominance (E′ ≫ E″, tan δ < 0.3), and higher thermal decomposition temperatures, are consistent with a denser network and the formation of PEG–COL ether linkages without prior PEG or collagen functionalization. Microstructural analyses (SEM/AFM) show greater fibrillar interconnectivity and roughness, while XRD indicates increased amorphous character upon enzymatic cross-linking. Functional performance relevant to wound care was demonstrated: rapid exudate uptake (equilibrium swelling 94 % within 10 min), broad-spectrum antibacterial activity (>99 % reduction of E. coli and ≥90 % of S. aureus), sustained antioxidant capacity, and cytocompatibility (≥80 % viability in human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes) with negligible hemolysis (<1 %). In vitro scratch assays reached 100 % closure by 48 h. In a porcine full-thickness wound model, HRP-cross-linked, rGO-reinforced COL/PEG hydrogels achieved accelerated re-epithelialization by day 21, robust angiogenesis and granulation, and no detectable irritation or systemic pathology. These results establish HRP-mediated, DA-assisted cross-linking as a minimally modified route to conductive, antioxidant COL/PEG hydrogels with tunable mechanics and clinically relevant regenerative efficacy.
Synergistic rheology of chia and aloe vera mucilage with Spirulina residue: Enhancing emulsion stability for sustainable food applications
(Elsevier, 2025-11-01) Calero Romero, Nuria; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Carrillo de la Fuente, Francisco; Oliveira, Sónia; Raymundo, Anabela; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides; TEP133: Racionalización Energ. en Procesos de Transf. de Materia
This study was conducted in two phases to develop sustainable, plant-based food emulsions using chia and aloe vera mucilage combined with Spirulina residual biomass (SRB), a protein-rich byproduct from phycocyanin extraction aimed at valorising industrial residues. In the first phase, a response surface methodology was applied to evaluate the rheological properties of aqueous dispersions containing both mucilage and 1 wt% SRB, which constituted the continuous phase of the emulsions. Results revealed a significant synergistic effect between chia and aloe vera: higher chia content enhanced elasticity, while a near 50:50 ratio provided maximum viscosity. While the chia-to-aloe vera ratio had a greater influence on gel-like behaviour, affecting parameters such as elasticity and structure development, the total mucilage concentration had a more pronounced effect on flow properties. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed this synergy by revealing a cohesive and structured network formed through the integration of chia's granular particles and aloe vera's fibrous elements. In the second phase, these mucilage-SRB dispersions were used as the continuous phase in algal oil emulsions. While SRB alone demonstrated strong emulsifying capacity by producing the smallest initial droplet sizes, it also exhibited the highest creaming rates, indicating limited emulsion stability. The addition of chia and aloe vera mucilage significantly reduced creaming by up to 87 % and limited droplet size growth by up to 11 % after 15 days. These findings highlight the functional role of SRB as an emulsifier and the crucial stabilizing effect of chia and aloe vera mucilage in producing clean-label, stable food emulsions.
Synergetic green synthesis of CuO, ZnO, and CuO-ZnO nanocomposite nanoparticles using Genista hispanica L. extract for enhanced photocatalytic and antioxidant properties
(Springer Nature, 2025-07-02) Azabi, Warda; Gherraf, Noureddine; Romero García, Alberto; Abdullah, Johar Amin Ahmed; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
In this study, CuO, ZnO, and CuO-doped ZnO (CuO-ZnO) nanocomposite nanoparticles were synthesized using a green approach, with Genista hispanica L. extract as a capping and reducing agent. The effects of extract concentration and calcination on the nanoparticle’s (NPs) morphological, structural, and optical properties were analyzed. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Visible (UV‒Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and zeta potential (ZP) measurements. X-ray diffraction confirmed monoclinic and hexagonal structures, with average sizes of 11.1, 13.0, and 8.8 nm after calcination for CuO, ZnO, and CuO-ZnO nanocomposite nanoparticles at 30 g of extract. SEM images showed reduced particle sizes (10.5, 8.7, and 8.4 nm) with increased extract concentration and calcination. The CuO-ZnO nanocomposite (NCs) demonstrated enhanced stability with a zeta potential of −12.23 mV. At the same time, CuO and ZnO nanoparticles exhibit a stability of −17.5 mV and −7.5 mV, respectively. Photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) revealed a maximum photodegradation rate of 38%, 27% for CuO and ZnO nanoparticles, and 87% for CuO-ZnO nanocomposite in 120 min, attributed to their synergistic effect. Antioxidant tests confirmed the superior scavenging activity of CuO-ZnO nanocomposites compared to individual oxides. Higher extract concentrations enhanced phytochemical content, resulting in smaller nanoparticles, while calcination improved purity. These results demonstrate the potential of CuO-ZnO nanocomposites for photocatalytic and antioxidant applications.
Graphene oxide and condensed tannins enhance the efficacy of alginate hydrogels in wound management
(Elsevier, 2025-06) González, Luisbel; Zapata, Bastián; Figueroa, Toribio; Ruiz, Isleidy; Montoya, Luis Felipe; Pino, Esteban J.; Aguayo, Claudio; Toledo, Jorge R.; Romero García, Alberto; Fernández, Katherina; Ingeniería Química; Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico (FONDECYT). Chile; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
Wound healing involves the participation of platelets, growth factors, and other mediators. In this context, the properties of the dressing play a crucial role in tissue regeneration. To address this need, functionalized alginate hydrogels were developed with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and condensed tannins (TA) extracted from the bark of Pinus radiata for use as wound dressings. The hydrogels were physicochemically characterized, including assessments of their antioxidant, antibacterial, in vitro, and in vivo wound-healing properties. A polyelectrolyte layer was detected on the surfaces of the Alg/rGO4.5 hydrogels, composed of C-C/C-H bonds (39.9 %), which prevented fiber relaxation during swelling and reduced the density of negative charges on the surface (−46.8 mV), thereby increasing the hydrophobicity of the hydrogel (92.3°). The electrical conductivity of the hydrogels significantly increased with the addition of rGO, reaching values of up to 27.7 mS/m, a property that is important for promoting cell migration in the wound-healing process. Additionally, the TA release reached 26.4 % in Alg/rGO9/TA9, enhancing the antioxidant capacity of the material (46.0 ± 5.8 mg TE/100 g). The TA exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli and supported cell viability, achieving a rate of 145 %, indicating notable cell regeneration. In vivo studies conducted on Yorkshire pigs showed that the Alg/rGO9/TA9 hydrogels achieved complete wound closure in 21 days and demonstrated superior tissue regeneration compared to a commercial dressing. Histologically, the functionalized hydrogel promoted better re-epithelialization and granulation tissue formation, highlighting the potential of these hydrogels as wound dressings. This study underscores the importance of hydrogel functionalization in enhancing their properties and applicability in regenerative medicine.
Collagen/rGO/tannin hydrogels with a programmable biointerface for tunable electrical conductivity and antioxidant capacity in tissue regeneration
(Elsevier, 2026-01) González, Luisbel; Ruiz, Isleidy; Raposo, María; Aguayo, Claudio; Toledo, Jorge R.; Pérez-Puyana, Víctor Manuel; Romero García, Alberto; Fernández, Katherina; Ingeniería Química; Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte; Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico (FONDECYT). Chile; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
Restoring the endogenous bioelectric field while simultaneously protecting healing tissue from mechanical and oxidative stress remains a major challenge for next-generation wound dressings. Here we present an interface-programmed collagen hydrogel that integrates dopamine-reduced graphene oxide (rGO-PDA), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and condensed tannins (TA) into a single supramolecular network. rGO-PDA provides electronic pathways; TA forges multivalent π–π and hydrogen-bond bridges that immobilize rGO within the fibrillar matrix, confer radical-scavenging capacity and compatibilized the organic/inorganic phases; PEG acts as a hydrophilic spacer that tunes porosity and plasticity. Compared with the PEG-plasticized collagen control, the optimized COL/PEG20/TA10 formulation increased the storage modulus fourfold to 47 kPa, doubled the critical strain, raised the thermal decomposition onset by 80 °C and achieved stable conductivities of 10.3 mS/cm, comparable to native skin. The same interfacial design lowered the water-contact angle to 33 °, raised swelling to 150 % and enabled a biphasic release of TA that maintained 30 % DPPH inhibition for 4 h. Extracts enhanced human dermal fibroblast viability to 151 ± 5 % and accelerated in vitro scratch closure to > 95 % in 48 h. In a porcine full-thickness model the hydrogel achieved complete, scar-free re-epithelialization and highly organized dermal architecture within 21 days, while rabbit and guinea-pig tests confirmed it to be non-irritant. These results demonstrate that molecularly engineered collagen/rGO/TA interfaces can synchronously deliver mechanical reinforcement, bioelectronic stimulation and antioxidant defense, providing a scalable, all-natural platform for advanced wound management.
Investigating surface properties of a blend of phycocyanin and chia mucilage for its possible applications in dispersed systems
(Elsevier, 2025-10) Vela Albarrán, María; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Carrillo de la Fuente, Francisco; Santos García, Jenifer; Calero Romero, Nuria; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Innovación, Ciencia y Empresa. España; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de Coloides; TEP133: Racionalización Energ. en Procesos de Transf. de Materia
The study of the effect of protein-polysaccharide interactions on the properties of air-water and oil-water interfaces has special relevance in the development of processed dispersions, such as foams or emulsions. Specifically, the analysis of the interfacial behaviour of mixtures that exhibit associative interactions. A surface characterization of a system consisted of a 1:1 mixture of phycocyanin and chia mucilage was studied by comparison with both unitary aqueous systems. Surface activity was assessed through surface tension measurements, revealing that the mixture achieved a surface tension of approximately 52 mN/m at 0.1 wt%, like pure phycocyanin, despite its lower protein content. Interfacial rheology showed a significant enhancement in viscoelastic properties for the mixture, with elastic and viscous moduli (G′ and G″) approximately two orders of magnitude higher than those of phycocyanin alone, indicating a reinforced gel-like behaviour. In contrast, chia mucilage alone formed a fluid-like film with G″ > G′. Zeta potential measurements confirmed that the mixture retained a high negative surface charge (like phycocyanin), ensuring colloidal stability. The foaming capacity increased with concentration for phycocyanin, which produced the greatest volume expansion. In the 1:1 phycocyanin–chia mucilage blend, overrun was intermediate but protein-efficient up to a concentration of 0.25 wt%, beyond which the increasing bulk viscosity curtailed further aeration. Chia mucilage alone consistently displayed the lowest foaming capacity. These findings demonstrate a cooperative interaction between phycocyanin and chia mucilage, resulting in improved surface structuring and mechanical strength, making the blend a promising candidate for sustainable, bio-based stabilizers in dispersed systems.
Sustainable stabilization of microfluidized chia oil nanoemulsions by mixed proteins
(Springer nature, 2025-08-25) Santos García, Jenifer; Jiménez Rosado, Mercedes; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Romero García, Alberto; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
Bovine serum albumin (BSA) is an animal globular protein widely employed in emulsion-based formulations, such as food products. However, non-animal proteins have recently emerged as potential sustainable alternatives. Phycocyanin (PC), a protein derived from algae, is non-toxic and biocompatible. In this study, nanoemulsions containing chia oil were formulated using BSA, PC, and their 1:1 mixture as stabilizers. The Z-potential of protein solutions was determined at pH 2.5 and 4, surface tension and interfacial rheology were measured to assess interfacial properties, and emulsions were prepared using rotor–stator homogenization followed by microfluidization. The droplet size distribution, rheological behaviours, and physical stability (Turbiscan Stability Index) were evaluated, and pectin was incorporated at different concentrations to improve stability. Z-potential measurements indicated that pH 2.5 was optimal for protein stability. At this pH, PC and the protein mixture exhibited a more structured interface than BSA alone. Microfluidized emulsions stabilized with the mixture showed the smallest droplet size (150 nm) and moderate polydispersity (span = 2.48). The primary destabilization mechanism was creaming, which was mitigated by adding pectin; concentrations of 7.5–10 wt.% produced more structured systems, increased viscosity, and reduced instability. These findings highlight the potential of combining BSA and PC for developing stable and sustainable chia oil nanoemulsions.
Comparative Assessment of Injection and Compression Molding on Soy Protein Bioplastic Matrices for Controlled Iron Release in Horticulture
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025-06-17) Castro Criado, Daniel; Jiménez Rosado, Mercedes; Pérez-Puyana, Víctor Manuel; Romero García, Alberto; Ingeniería Química; Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de Andalucía
Conventional horticultural fertilization frequently leads to nutrient loss and environmental contamination, driving interest in biodegradable controlled-release systems. This work developed soy protein isolate (SPI) matrices containing 5 wt.% FeSO4·7H2O using injection. The matrices were evaluated for crosslinking, mechanical properties, water uptake (WUC), soluble matter loss (SML), iron-release kinetics in water and soil, and biodegradability under composting conditions. Injection-molded samples achieved very high crosslinking with moderate rigidity and water absorption and delivered iron rapidly in water, while compression-molded samples exhibited slightly lower crosslinking but greater stiffness, higher WUC, minimal SML, and sustained iron release. Notably, both processing methods yielded comparable iron-release profiles in soil and complete biodegradation within 71 days. Overall, compression molding produces SPI-based matrices with superior mechanical strength and water retention, positioning them as an ideal solution for long-lasting, sustainable nutrient delivery in horticulture.
Theoretical study on the interactions between ibrutinib and gold nanoparticles for being used as drug delivery in the chronic lymphocytic leukemia
(Elsevier, 2020) Sánchez Coronilla, Antonio; Martín Fernández, Elisa Isabel; Fernández de Córdova, Francisco José; Prado Gotor, Rafael; Hidalgo Toledo, José; Química Física; Ingeniería Química; Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla; FQM106: Carbolinas
A theoretical study of the interaction of ibrutinib with both cysteine/methyl-cysteine and gold surface is presented. The interest of ibrutinib is that binds through its acrylamide group with the S atom from Cys481 residue of Bruton-tyrosine-kinase (BTK) protein and inhibits the maturation of B-lymphocytes. In a first part, the interaction of ibrutinib through its acrylamide group with cysteine/methyl-cysteine is studied in the range of 298 to 315 K to analyse the effect of increasing the temperature in the binding of the drug with the amine-acid. The interaction is favoured at physiologic temperature but its stability decreases at higher temperatures. Thus, in patients with fever the drug may present a lower effectivity and certain amount of free drug in the blood may appear increasing the risk of toxicity for them. In the second part, the interaction of ibrutinib with a gold surface was studied to explore the possibility of using gold nanoparticles as ibrutinib deliverer. The most stable interaction corresponds to the structure with the nitrogen atoms from pyrimidine moiety and from NH2 directly focused over gold atoms keeping acrylamide group of ibrutinib free for joining to BTK. Therefore, according to the theoretical results gold nanoparticles may be used as ibrutinib deliverer.

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