Study on the interaction between algal Carragenan and iron oxide nanoparticles

This study investigates the extraction, characterization, and adsorption behavior of κ-carrageenan (K-Carr) derived from red and green morphotypes of Kappaphycus alvarezii collected from two coastal regions in Brazil. K-Carr was extracted using an alkaline heat treatment and purified through precipitation and drying. Its interaction with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SAMNs) was evaluated using a methylene blue-based colorimetric assay. Adsorption isotherms were modeled using the Langmuir equation to determine binding capacities. Desorption was induced using aqueous ammonia, allowing quantification of K-Carr recovery. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta potential measurements characterized particle size and surface charge. Both purified and crude K-Carr extracts were analyzed, with specific calibration curves developed for accurate quantification. The methodology enables efficient assessment of K-Carr binding to SAMNs, highlighting potential applications in targeted separation and functional food development.