Search

The current study was aimed to enhance the bio-accessibility and functionality of bioactive compounds from kenaf seed flour. Hence, eight different formulations (F1–F8) of kenaf seed nanocomposites (KNC) were prepared using lecithin, whey protein concentrated, and ascorbic acid by hot-melt extrusion (HME) at 80 °C, 100 °C, and 120 °C. Results revealed that F3 and F6 formulations at 100 °C were very promising; exhibited nano-size particle and dispersion, better water absorption-related parameters, and higher content of total polyphenol as well as total flavonoid. Besides, F3 and F6 also exhibited significant antioxidant potentials, evaluated by 1,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl (OH) radical assays. The superior performances of F3 and F6 were evaluated by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). FTIR confirmed physical crosslinking generation between kenaf seed powder and biopolymers. Multiple water channels were identified through SEM analysis. Therefore, F3 and F6 formulations may be considered as noble formulations to improve bio-accessibility and antioxidant capacity of kenaf seed flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new concept for preparing hollow metal oxide nanopowders by salt-assisted spray pyrolysis applying nanoscale Kirkendall diffusion is introduced. The composite powders of metal oxide and indecomposable metal salt are prepared by spray pyrolysis. Post-treatment under a reducing atmosphere and subsequent washing using distilled water produce aggregation-free metal nanopowders. The metal nanopowders are then transformed into metal oxide hollow nanopowders by nanoscale Kirkendall diffusion. Co3O4 hollow nanopowders are prepared as first target materials. A cobalt oxide–NaCl composite powder prepared by spray pyrolysis transforms into several Co3O4 hollow nanopowders by several treatment processes. The discharge capacities of the Co3O4 nanopowders with filled and hollow structures at a current density of 1 A g−1 for the 150th cycle are 605 and 775 mA h g−1, respectively. The hollow structure formed by nanoscale Kirkendall diffusion improves the lithium-ion storage properties of Co3O4 nanopowders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]