Sigma-Aldrich Zein from Maize

Zein protein, derived from maize (corn), is an alcohol-soluble prolamine widely recognized for its applications in biopolymers, coatings, adhesives, and biodegradable materials. With its unique physicochemical properties and natural biodegradability, zein serves as a sustainable alternative for various industrial and research applications.

Key Features:

1. Biological Source:
   • Derived from maize endosperm cells, ensuring natural and sustainable origins.
2. High Purity:
   • Provided as a powder, meeting stringent quality standards (Quality Level 200).
3. Structural Protein:
   • Molecular weight of ~20 kDa and encoded by the z1C2 gene on maize chromosome 7.
4. Biodegradable Polymer:
   • A sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
5. Versatile Applications:
   • Used in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial products.

Specifications:

Applications:

1. Biopolymers and Materials Science:
   • Used in electrospinning to create fibers for advanced applications.
   • Blended with starch to manufacture thermoplastic materials.
2. Coatings and Adhesives:
   • Acts as a film-forming agent in coatings, providing water resistance and durability.
3. Sustainable Plastics:
   • A key ingredient in the development of biodegradable plastics, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials.
4. Industrial Applications:
   • Widely used in the production of ceramics, inks, textiles, cosmetics, and chewing gum.
5. Pharmaceutical and Food Industry:
   • Used as a coating material for tablets and in the encapsulation of bioactive compounds.

Advantages:

1. Eco-Friendly:
   • A sustainable, biodegradable protein ideal for reducing environmental impact.
2. Versatile Functionalities:
   • Film-forming, adhesive, and water-resistant properties enable diverse industrial applications.
3. Renewable Source:
   • Derived from maize, supporting agricultural sustainability.
4. Biocompatibility:
   • Safe for use in food and pharmaceutical formulations.

Biochemical and Physiological Actions:

• Protein Composition:
  • Zein lacks essential amino acids like lysine and tryptophan, contributing to its poor nutritional value.
• Industrial Benefits:
  • Its biodegradability and agropolymer nature make it a preferred choice for replacing oil-based plastics.

Storage and Handling:

• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and light.
• Handling Precautions: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid inhalation of powder.

Product Details:

Use Cases:

1. Sustainable Packaging:
   • Develops biodegradable films and coatings for environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
2. Biomedical Research:
   • Produces fibers and scaffolds for tissue engineering and drug delivery.
3. Industrial Manufacturing:
   • Serves as a stabilizer, binder, and water-resistant agent in adhesives, cosmetics, and textiles.
4. Food and Pharmaceuticals:
   • Acts as a coating for food products and tablets to enhance shelf life and stability.

The Sigma-Aldrich Zein Protein is an innovative, biodegradable material with versatile applications across industries. Its unique properties and sustainable nature make it a valuable ingredient for research, manufacturing, and environmentally conscious product development.