Electrospinning is an advanced processing technology which can lead to new materials and applications. Zein is a material whose electrospinning characteristics have been extensively studied. Electrospun zein fibre can have various architectures and can be enhanced through combination with other materials. We have been interested in imparting functionality to electrospun zein fibre by combining condensed tannins. Tannins are well known for complexing proteins as well as attributes such as high antioxidant character and antimicrobial activity. We have investigated the novelty of combining condensed tannins with zein protein utilising both isolated conjugates and the direct combination of these two materials on electrospinning. Reported are attempts at electrospinning various zein-tannin combinations using differing blend ratios, solvent and solids contents. The resulting electrospun materials are discussed in terms of their ability to form electrospun fibre, fibre architectures and chemical properties.

Electrospinning with condensed tannins: Effects on co-spinning with zein

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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