Characterization of the CaseinKeratin Self-Assembly Nanomicelles

Abstract EN

Complex nanomicelles were made from casein and keratin through electrostatic self-assembly and transglutaminase fixation that was proved to be harmless and green.

The complex nanomicelles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and steady-state florescence.

The results show that the complex nanomcelles acquired at the neutral pH in the mass ratio of casein to keratin 4 : 1 exhibit an anomalous sphere shape with uniform size which the diameter is about 40–70 nm.

The complex nanomicelles in solution possess excellent dilution and storage stability due to the fixation and their high ζ-potential (22.8 mV).

The complex nanomicelles are relatively hydrophilic and have a good potential for industrial application.