Production of gliadin-poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) nanoparticles for hydrophilic coating

Cyanoacrylate nanoparticles have been usually prepared by anionic polymerization initiated by hydroxyl ions derived from dissociation of water. In the current research, amine groups on the surface of gliadin aggregates were utilized as initiator for the polymerization of ethyl cyanoacrylate (ECA). Gliadin, a protein found in the endosperms of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), is not soluble in water, but dissolves in aqueous ethanol in the form of aggregates. As a result of the reaction with ECA monomers, gliadin molecules are chemically bound to poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) (PECA) chains. The nanoparticles thus produced are made up of block copolymers that are consisted of hydrophilic moiety (gliadin) and hydrophobic moiety (PECA). The suspension containing these nanoparticles showed an excellent coating capability on the surface of hydrophobic materials such as glass or plastics. A simple spray coating changed the wetting property of the material instantly and dramatically. Since both protein and poly(alkyl cyanoacrylate) are degradable polymers, the developed nanoparticles are degradable.