Microstructure and Release Behavior of Alginate–Natural Hydrocolloid Composites: A Comparative Study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigated the effects of combining sodium alginate (ALG) with various natural hydrocolloids on the microstructure and release behaviors of microbeads. The encapsulation solutions were prepared at a 1:1 (w/w) ratio with ALG as the control and carrageenan (CAR), locust bean gum (LBG), acacia gum (ACA), pectin (PEC), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as experimental groups. Each formulation contained 0.2% (w/v) tartrazine and was extruded into a CaCl2 solution for bead production. Encapsulation efficiency varied across formulations, with the lowest in the control (ALG-ALG) and highest in ALG-CAR and ALG-CMC, reaching 74% and 78%, respectively. The microbead sizes ranged from 2.07 to 3.48 mm, with the lowest particle diameter observed in ALG-ACA composites. Surface analysis showed smooth and uniform microbeads in the control (ALG-ALG), while ALG-LBG microbeads were rougher. Release kinetics were assessed using various models, with the Higuchi model best describing the release for most formulations (highest R2 values). Tartrazine release followed pseudo-Fickian behavior in all formulations, with slower release in ALG-ACA and faster release in ALG-LBG microbeads. This study fills a gap in understanding how the incorporation of different natural hydrocolloids influences both the encapsulation efficiency and release dynamics of alginate-based microbeads, providing valuable insights for applications in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Source: Polymers
Authors: Hatice Sıçramaz, Ali Baran Dönmez, Buse Güven, Derya Ünal, Elif Aşbay
Institution: Sakarya University
Language: English
Subfield: Food Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
Funder: Sakarya Üniversitesi
OpenAlex ID: W4407680011