Propolis Extract: Weaving Antioxidant Power into Polymeric Composites Through Electrospinning

Author(s)

Ramos, Sergiana dos Passos ; Bernardo, Leonardo Ribeiro ; Burck, Monize ; Libero, Laura Ordonho ; Assis, Marcelo ; Braga, Anna Rafaela Cavalcante

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: POLYMERS; v. 16, n. 22, p. 12-pg., 2024-11-01.

Abstract

The manufacture of composites with bioactive compounds represents a promising strategy for developing advanced materials in biomedical, food, and industrial applications. However, challenges such as stability, bioactivity retention, and controlled release hinder their effectiveness. Electrospinning emerges as a viable technique for encapsulating bioactive compounds, offering advantages such as high surface area, porosity, and gradual release, which are critical for maintaining the bioactivity of embedded compounds. Regarding bioactive composition, propolis has been highlighted as a potential source and has great potential as a biopolymer ingredient due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This study analyzed the composition and antioxidant activity of three commercial propolis extracts to select the most suitable extract for fiber composite production using zein and polyethylene oxide (PEO), both recognized as safe. The characterization of the electrospun fibers, including morphology, thermal properties, and antioxidant release, was conducted through various analytical techniques. The findings highlight the effectiveness of electrospinning for developing composite materials with bioactive compounds, paving the way for innovations in antioxidant technologies across multiple sectors. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/06293-9 - Technological potential of spirulina and C-phycocyanin for application in food
• Grantee: Anna Rafaela Cavalcante Braga
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• FAPESP's process: 18/13408-1 - Multi-user equipment approved in grant 2018/01550-8: electro-spray equipment to obtain bioactive compounds into nanostructures
• Grantee: Anna Rafaela Cavalcante Braga
• Support Opportunities: Multi-user Equipment Program
• FAPESP's process: 20/06732-7 - A panoramic study for the use of Spirulina biomass: from the bioactive compound's extraction to their encapsulation and application
• Grantee: Anna Rafaela Cavalcante Braga
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/00857-0 - Spirulina biomass: residues biorefinery for food ingredients application as a sustainable strategy
• Grantee: Anna Rafaela Cavalcante Braga
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants