Isolation and characterization of a new class of amphipathic biopolymers capable of self-assembly from aqueous media

Conference · Tue Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1996

OSTI ID:370871

Martin, G G; Cannon, G C; McCormick, C L ^[1]

---

1. Univ. of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS (United States)

Extensive research is being done in many laboratories to investigate the role of synthetic hydrophobically-modified polymers and amphipathic proteins for their potential in phase-transfer, sequestration, and elimination of polluting hydrocarbons and surfactants. Our laboratory has begun a research program which is aimed at the development of a new class of environmentally benign biomaterials using the amphipathic proteins termed {open_quotes}hydrophobins{close_quotes} and an associated polysaccharide, schizophyllan. These biopolymers can stabilize oil dispersions, attach strongly to polyethylene and polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces rendering them hydrophilic, and can self-assemble into a stable, flexible membrane. Preliminary experiments in our laboratory and others have demonstrated the immense technological potential of this class of biomaterials for surface modification of membranes and coatings, fouling resistance, controlled delivery, protective encapsulation, and drag reduction.

• OSTI ID: 370871
• Report Number(s): CONF-960376--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
COATINGS
DISPERSIONS
ENCAPSULATION
HYDROCARBONS
MEMBRANES
POLLUTANTS
POLYMERS
POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SURFACE PROPERTIES
WASTE PROCESSING