Protein- and starch-based nano- and microbiomaterials from local African plant sources

Project lead: Prof John Taylor and Prof Naushad Emmambux


Food materials play an important role in the development of biomaterials. Major biopolymers from starch-protein interactions are currently being investigated for their ability to form stable materials that have potential for other uses such as creating biodegradable materials. These protein and starch-based nano- and micro-biomaterials are formed from the sorghum grain by manipulating functional properties such as its high foaming capacity.

This development adds value in the green economy, contributing to the reduction in the number of materials that cause harm to the environment. The project brings together expertise from the department of food science and material science to develop a novel product, a biodegradable plastic made from starch and protein polymers from sorghum.

- Author IFNuW

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