Browsing by Author "Waldén, Maria"

Global environmental challenges have increased the demand for materials originating from renewable sources. Fungal cell biomass (FCB) is an enzyme industry byproduct, of which protein-polysaccharide composition could provide such material. The aim of this master’s thesis was to investigate functionality of FCB in two dispersions: emulsion and foam. Three fractions (FCB-W, FCB-N and FCB-E) were prepared and their solubility, zeta potential and particle size were studied to understand their behavior in dispersions. The hypothesis was that FCB fractions could form stable emulsions and foams, which was measured by emulsion stability and foam layer volume over time. Supporting the hypothesis, FCB fractions formed moderately stable emulsions. Especially FCB-N fraction showed potential to form stable O/W emulsion. Creaming and sedimentation were the main instabilities observed during storage, without coalescence. Contrary to the hypothesis, FCB fractions did not form stable foams, however FCB-W fraction produced better foam structure. Non-foaming could be advantageous during emulsification. Differences in dispersion stabilities could be explained by different protein-polysaccharide compositions of the fractions influencing their solubility, zeta potential and particle size, thus differentiating their interactions and functionality in dispersions. To conclude, FCB fractions have potential to provide more sustainable emulsifiers for industry. To optimize its functionality in emulsions, further research of the effect of particle size reduction or alkaline pH on emulsion stability is necessary, whereas deeper understanding of the role of proteins in foaming ability could reveal further possibilities for utilization of FCB.