Corn Zein Fibres
topic
Zein fibres from corn gluten protein dissolved in aqueous alcohol, wet or dry spun. Properties: thermoplastic (Tg 160°C), hydrophobic (moisture regain 3-5%), biodegradable, biocompatible, elastic recovery, but low tenacity (0.7-1.2 g/den) and brittleness. Applications in biomedical textiles (sutures, wound dressings), composites, and specialty films more than apparel.
Role
Leverages corn processing residues for biodegradable, biocompatible materials targeting medical and technical textiles where zein's unique properties (hydrophobicity, thermoplasticity) provide advantages.