Utilization of the Combined Effect of Ultrasound Waves and Sodium metaperiodate in Preparation of Oxidized Galactomannan Fenugreek Gum for Medical and Other Purposes

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 National Research Centre , Textile Research Industrial Division Pre-treatment and Finishing of Cellulose based Fibers Department (PFCFD), El-Behouth St. (former El-Tahrir str.), Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt

2 NRC,Egypt, Cairo

3 Textile Research Division, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt

4 National Research Centre

5 Dyeing, printing and auxiliaries department, Textile division, National research centre, Doki, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

A new oxidation system was developed for synthesis of oxidized galactomannan fenugreek gum (GMFG). The system is based on subjecting the (GMFG) to the combined effects of sonication and sodium metaperiodate (SMPI) oxidation under a variety of conditions. Variables studied include SMPI concentration and duration as well as pH and temperature of the treatment (synthesis) conditions. The as synthesized GMFG, that is, the oxidized GMFG samples were submitted to analysis whereby the carboxyl and carbonyl groups in addition to apparent viscosity and rheological properties were monitored. Results obtained signify that SMPI concentration, pH, temperature and duration of synthesis act in favor of carboxyl content, the latter increases by increasing the magnitude of the said variables. The reverse is the case with the carbonyl content and residual SMPI, i.e., the carbonyl and residual SMPI decreases by increasing the parameters controlling the synthesis conditions. Accordingly, the most appropriate conditions for synthesis of the oxidized GMFG under investigation refers to SMPI concentration of 0.5 gm/5 gm GMFG for a duration of 30 min while keeping the pH at 3 and the temperature at 50°C. It was also observed that the oxidized GMFG is quite stable for storing time up to two weeks; opposite to the non-oxidized GMFG which becomes mostly after only one day. It was further realized that sizing of cotton fabric with oxidized GMFG displays antibacterial activity against G+ bacteria and G- bacteria but with the certainty that bacterial of G+ bacteria is greater than that of G- bacteria. Furthermore, GMFG exhibits higher solubility and lower apparent viscosity than does its non-oxidized mate, indicating easier handling and removal of the oxidized GMFG. Indeed, the new methodology, outlined herein for the synthesis and micro chemical characterization of oxidized GMFG sound simpler and easier to perform than other oxidation methodologies. This together with energy and time-saving would advocate current research outputs as environment-friendly methodology for production of GMFG for use in medical and other purposes.

Keywords

Main Subjects