Collagen
Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human and animal body, making up about 30% of total protein content. It is a fibrous, triple-helix protein found primarily in connective tissues, including skin, bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. In industry, collagen is extracted from animal sources (bovine, porcine, marine) for use in food, health, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications.
- Industrial Applications
- Key Features
- Key Functional Properties
- Types of Collagen
- FAQ's
| Industry | Product/Use | Functional Role |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesives | Wood glues, bookbinding, paper lamination | Binder, film-forming agent |
| Textile | Warp sizing, fabric coatings | Strengthens yarns, improves abrasion resistance |
| Paper Industry | Coatings, sizing, surface treatments | Ink absorbency, print quality improvement |
| Fertilizer | Organic nitrogen source | Enhances soil structure and microbial activity |
| Leather tanning | Hide treatment | Aids in softening and preservation |
| Cosmetics | Hair masks, facial peels (non-edible) | Protein filler, film-former |
| Construction | Mortar/plaster additives | Water retention, adhesion improvement |
| Pet Food | Animal hydrolysate-based flavor enhancers | Protein supplement |
| Animal Feed | Non-edible protein for livestock nutrition | Source of digestible protein |
| Source | Type of Protein | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Animal by-products | Gelatin, collagen, keratin, casein | From bones, hides, hooves, or milk; mostly hydrolyzed |
| Plant-derived | Soy protein, wheat gluten, corn zein | Used where vegan or non-animal ingredients are preferred |
| Fish by-products | Fish gelatin, fish protein hydrolysate | Sustainable source; used in fertilizers and adhesives |
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Binding | High affinity for substrates like paper, wood, or minerals |
| Emulsifying | Stabilizes oil/water mixtures in industrial fluids and cosmetics |
| Foaming | Used in fire retardants and flotation processes |
| Film-forming | Creates uniform, breathable films for coatings and packaging |
| Solubility | Varies based on hydrolysis level (soluble proteins preferred) |
| Type | Location in Body | Industrial Use Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Type I | Skin, bones, tendons, ligaments | Beauty, nutraceuticals, bone health |
| Type II | Cartilage | Joint supplements, arthritis care |
| Type III | Skin, lungs, blood vessels | Skin elasticity, cardiovascular health |
| Type V & X | Hair, placenta, cartilage | Specialized biomedical uses |
Q1: What is the difference between industrial protein and edible protein?
A: Industrial protein is not food-grade and is used for technical purposes. Edible protein meets strict safety and hygiene standards for human consumption.
Q2: Is industrial protein biodegradable?
A: Yes, it is a naturally derived, biodegradable material, making it an eco-friendly choice in industrial formulations.
Q3: Can industrial protein be used in agriculture?
A: Yes, it is often used in slow-release fertilizers and as a binder in animal feed blocks (only when allowed by regulations).
Q4: What forms is industrial protein available in?
A: Typically available as powder or granules, packaged in bulk bags or drums for industrial use.
Q5: Is it safe to handle industrial protein?
A: Yes, with standard industrial safety precautions—use a mask and gloves to avoid inhalation or skin irritation.
Q6: How long can industrial protein be stored?
A: When stored properly in dry, sealed conditions, shelf life can exceed 12–24 months.
