Dielectric behaviour and pore size distribution of collagen-guar gum composites: Effect of guar gum

Collagen is usually combined with other biopolymers to enhance its physico-chemical properties for tissue engineering applications. In this study, guar gum, a non ionic plant derived polysaccharide was mixed with collagen and the effect of the same on dielectric behaviour and pore size distribution of the composites has been investigated. Circular dichroic studies show that guar gum does not bring any alteration in the conformation of the native protein. Thermoporometry result shows that by varying the concentration of guar gum, the pore size distribution of the biocomposite can be controlled. The thermal stability of biocomposite system increases as the concentration of guar gum increases and reaches a maximum of 40 +/- 0.5 degrees C. Initiation of the polarization mechanism through the ionic charge drift on the protein-additives interfaces is affected due to the guar gum concentration, which influences the hydration shell of the protein molecule. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.