Insoluble Alpha-Glucan Coating Prevents Agglomeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for new forms of insoluble alpha-glucan with enhanced economic value and performance characteristics for various applications, as existing forms lack optimal processing benefits and are prone to agglomeration and denaturation during drying.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising insoluble alpha-glucan with at least 50% alpha-1,3 glycosidic linkages and a soluble alpha-glucan derivative, blended together with an additive, which preserves the microstructure of the insoluble alpha-glucan and reduces viscosity, allowing for easier handling and preventing agglomeration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insoluble alpha-glucan is used in various applications, then biodegradability and renewability are improved, but processing benefits are insufficient and agglomeration occurs during drying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system combining insoluble alpha-glucan with soluble alpha-glucan derivatives and additives. This composite approach allows the insoluble alpha-glucan to maintain its biodegradability while the soluble derivative and additive components improve processing characteristics, prevent agglomeration, and enable easier handling during manufacturing.
2Stability of the object's composition
If insoluble alpha-glucan is dried to reduce moisture content, then storage stability is improved, but agglomeration and denaturation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The soluble alpha-glucan derivative acts as an intermediary substance during the drying process. It remains soluble and prevents the insoluble alpha-glucan particles from aggregating together, while the additive provides further protection against denaturation. This intermediary mechanism allows drying to proceed without causing harmful agglomeration.
Solution Approach 2:
The additive is incorporated beforehand to provide protective cushioning against denaturation and agglomeration during drying. This preventive measure creates a protective environment that shields the insoluble alpha-glucan microstructure from harmful effects before they can occur.
3Ease of operation
If soluble alpha-glucan derivative is added to insoluble alpha-glucan, then viscosity is reduced and handling is improved, but microstructure may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The soluble alpha-glucan derivative and additive are distributed locally within the composition to provide targeted protection and viscosity reduction without affecting the overall microstructure of the insoluble alpha-glucan. The local presence of these components allows improved handling characteristics while preserving the essential structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are compositions comprising (i) an insoluble alpha-glucan and soluble alpha-glucan derivative, or (ii) an insoluble alpha-glucan and additive. These compositions can be in the form of particles, for example, such as particles comprising insoluble alpha-glucan coated with a soluble alpha-glucan derivative and/or additive. Methods are further disclosed for preparing these compositions, as well as various applications of using them.