Radiation processing offers a clean and additive-free method for preparation of value-added novel materials based on renewable, non-toxic and biodegradable natural polymers. The results of research work in some Member States showed that natural polysaccharides (alginate, chitin/chitosan, carrageeneans) could be either crosslinked or degraded (reduced molecular weight) by radiation. The crosslinked products can be used as hydrogel wound dressings, face cleaning cosmetic masks, adsorbents of toxins and non-bedsore mats. The low molecular weight products show antibiotic, antioxidant and plant-growth promoting properties. This CRP will focus on identification of methodologies and QA protocols for investigating structure-property relationship particularly with respect to radiation induced changes in natural polymers, investigating the anti-oxidant properties of low molecular weight natural polymers and assessing suitability for preservation of food and allied products and field-testing the potential of radiation-modified polysaccharides as plant growth promoters, soil conditioners and for enhancing fermentation of agro by-products
The overall objective of the proposed research project was the wide-spread promotion and general application of radiation processed natural materials, coupling radiation technology and end-users to derive enhanced benefits from these value-added natural materials.
Field-testing the potential of radiation-modified polysaccharides as plant growth promoters, soil conditioners and for enhancing fermentation of agro by-products.
Identification of methodologies and QA protocols for investigating structure-property relationship particularly with respect to radiation induced changes in natural polymers.
Investigating the anti-oxidant properties of low molecular weight natural polymers and assessing suitability for preservation of food and allied products.
The CRP had very high impact on enhancing the research capabilities of the participating institutions in applying radiation techniques to convert indigenous, non-toxic and renewable natural polymers into value added and marketable products. Under this CRP several institutions succeeded in starting the production of radiation-processed polysaccharides, the participants developed and successfully applied protocols for characterization of obtained low molecular weight polymers, as well as obtained good results in applying these products as plant growth promoters, soil conditioners and plant protectors in green house and field trials. The participants established numerous collaborations and signed relevant agreements between their institutions that will be in effect long after this CRP is completed. Participants has also used additional Agency support under national and regional TC project to collaborate, and had also applied jointly for additional support of their work at various EU institutions.
The CRP is in line with research and development priorities of participating MS, and they expressed strong interest and commitment for continued work and collaboration.