Production of Structured Biogels with Functionalized Xylans for Controlled Release of Eugenol in Agroindustrial Applications (Citrus Canker Control and Fruit Preservation)

• Grant number: 24/23698-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Plant Health
• Principal Investigator: Michel Brienzo
• Grantee: Danieli Fernanda Canaver Marin
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisa em Bioenergia (IPBEN). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/10839-4 - Sustainable citriculture through controlled release of antibacterial compounds from microgel-based formulations, AP.TEM

Abstract

Biopolymer-based hydrogels and their blends represent a promising alternative to petroleum-derived materials and their applications due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, these materials face limitations in their physical properties due to sensitivity to environmental conditions. To address these challenges, strategies such as the use of reinforcements, chemical modification of matrices, and the formation of biopolymer blends have been proposed. In this context, this project aims to develop innovative biopolymer blends composed of starch, chitosan, and pectin, reinforced with functionalized xylans. The xylan functionalization will involve chemical processes such as acetylation, carboxylation, and crosslinking to enhance the interaction between polysaccharides. These modifications seek to produce hydrogels with improved mechanical strength, enhanced bioactive compound retention, and increased adhesion to citrus leaves. The effects of biopolymer concentrations, functionalized xylans, and processing parameters will be evaluated on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the blends, including thermal resistance and controlled release. These hydrogels will be applied in agriculture as fruit coatings and pest control agents, particularly for the controlled release of eugenol, a bioactive compound effective against Xanthomonas citri, the bacterium responsible for citrus canker. To ensure process feasibility, a techno-economic analysis will be conducted using SuperPro Designer® version 8.0. This project is integrated with the Fapesp Thematic Project (2021/10839-4), which focuses on developing hydrogels as carriers for bioactive compounds in combating agricultural diseases. Preliminary observations indicate that powdered chitosan can detach within three weeks (unpublished data - Fapesp Project 2023/03002-6). To maximize the effectiveness of biogel applications, improving leaf adhesion and controlling the release of bioactive compounds were identified as critical factors. (AU)