2021 journal article

Study of tobacco-derived proteins in paper coatings

BIOPOLYMERS, 112(5).

By: J. Gutierrez n, S. Agate n, R. Venditti n & L. Pal n

co-author countries: United States of America 🇺🇸
author keywords: biopolymers; coatings; packaging; protein isolates; proteins; tobacco leaf
MeSH headings : Coated Materials, Biocompatible / chemistry; Molecular Weight; Paper; Plant Leaves / metabolism; Plant Proteins / chemistry; Plant Proteins / isolation & purification; Porosity; Protein Stability; Soybean Proteins / chemistry; Tobacco / metabolism; Viscosity
Source: Web Of Science
Added: April 26, 2021

Abstract Replacing synthetic polymers with renewable alternatives is a critical challenge for the packaging industry. This research investigated the use of leaf‐based proteins as a sustainable co‐binder in the coating formulations for paper‐based packaging and other applications. Protein isolates from tobacco leaf and alfalfa concentrates were characterized using the Pierce protein assay, Kjeldahl nitrogen, and gel electrophoresis. The proteins were tested as co‐binders in a typical latex‐based paper coating formulation. The rheology and water retention properties of the wet coating and the surface, optical, structural, and strength properties of coated papers were measured. The coating performance was affected by the purity, solubility, and molecular weight of the tobacco protein and exhibited a shear‐thinning behavior with lower water retention than soy protein. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy and time of flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy on the dried coating layer containing tobacco protein showed enhanced porosity (advantageous for package glueability) relative to the control latex coating. The tobacco protein offers adequate coverage and coating pigment distribution, indicating that this protein can be a suitable option in coatings for packaging applications.