Spectroscopic investigation of the interaction of p-benzoquinone with casein in the solid state

The reaction between p-benzoquinone (PBQ) and casein (protein) in the solid state was studied. After reaction with protein, the FT-IR spectra showed a new band at 1215 cm−1, with an intense sign attributed for casein/PBQ product. An optimum amount of PBQ for determination of the product when mixed with casein was 100 mg and a reaction time of 30 min. The product was stable for a period of 24 h after the reacting by heating. The interaction of PBQ with casein was investigated by FT-IR, reflectance, Raman and EPR spectroscopies. The reaction between PBQ and casein in the solid state yields a radical species (p-benzosemiquinone) that it is stabilized by the presence of p-biphenolate and p-benzoquinone species in the solid state.