Fabrication of κ-carrageenan fibers by wet spinning: Addition of ι-carrageenan

Taking advantage of the gelation process of κ-carrageenan, we have developed a wet-spinning process to fabricate micro-scale fibers from κ-carrageenan. Effects of three important spinning parameters, i.e. coagulation bath composition, spinning rate and post-spinning mechanical drawing, on fiber morphological and tensile properties have been discussed. In the present report, we studied the addition of ι-carrageenan on thermal and rheological properties of the bicomponent gels and the fibers spun from them. It was found that κ- and ι-carrageenan underwent phase separation in the bicomponent gel. Upon addition of ι-carrageenan, the diameter and compliance of the blend fiber was increased.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Interaction of κ- and ι-carrageenan in bicomponent gels involves phase separation. ► Addition of ι-carrageenan increased diameters of the κ- and ι-carrageenan blend fibers. ► Addition of ι-carrageenan increased the compliance of the κ- and ι-carrageenan blend fibers. ► The blend fibers are still hard and brittle.