Spectral, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties of Furfural and Formaldehyde Cross-Linked Soy Protein Concentrate: A Comparative Study

Soy protein concentrate, a potential alternative of petrochemical-based polymers, has been cross-linked with furfural and formaldehyde at 1, 2.5, 5, and 7.5% (w/w concentration). A comparative study of the physicochemical, spectral, thermal, mechanical, and biodegradable properties has been discussed in detail. The degradation pattern of the cross-linked product has been monitored by the TGA method. A computerized LOTUS package method developed by us has been used for evaluating kinetic parameters. Differential scanning calorimetric showed the melting and glass transition temperatures. The biodegradability of the cross-linked products has also been reported. The detailed comparative study indicates that furfural is a better cross-linking reagent than formaldehyde.