Keratin-Based Materials

The book introduces readers to the unique aspects of keratin and opportunities to develop various bioproducts and biomaterials from keratins. It discusses the structure, properties and specific applications of keratins extracted from different sources. Applications include keratins as absorbents, reinforcements or matrices for composites, hydrogels and fibres. * Presents the structure, properties and applications of keratin. * Valuable to researchers in academia and industry interested in bioproducts and biomaterials. Preface 6 Contents 8 1. Introduction to keratin 12 2. Extraction of keratin 36 3. Applications of keratin hydrolysates 66 4. Films/membranes from keratin and their applications 85 5. Keratin made into gels 120 6. Keratin for environmental remediation 146 7. Biocomposites 159 8. Fibers from keratin 171 9. Keratin micro/nanoparticles 185 10. Miscellaneous applications of keratin 198 References 224 Index 240