Abstract

The work deals with modeling the solubility of biodegradable films prepared from collagen hydrolysate. To this purpose, we studied the effect of added plasticizer, cross-linking agent or additional thermal annealing on the dissolution rate of films; experiments were planned as factorial tests of the 23 type. The basis for preparing films was a 15% (w/v) solution of hydrolysate with various additions of plasticizer – glycerol (GLY) in quantities of 0, 5 and 10% (related to hydrolysate dry matter, w/w), cross-linking agent – dialdehyde starch (DAS) in quantities of 0, 4 and 8% (related to hydrolysate dry matter, w/w).

Films were prepared by casting solution on silicone plates with subsequent evaporation of solvent (water) in 72 hours at 35°C. A part of the films was subjected to additional thermal annealing at 62.5 and 90°C. Solubility tests on films were performed in water at 25°C. The percentage of dissolved film was determined through gravimetry.

The results of film solubility were assessed statistically and graphic models were produced. It was found that added dialdehyde starch and additional thermal annealing very prominently affect the course of film dissolution. Qualities further studied with prepared films were thermal properties by DSC and TGA techniques.