Nanocomposite based on modified TiO sub(2)-BSA for functional applications

A novel nanocomposite based on TiO sub(2)-protein for functional applications was prepared and characterized. The composite was made by covalent immobilisation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on to the TiO sub(2) particles. BSA was attached to the TiO sub(2) powder through a three-step process. This involves the functionalization of the TiO sub(2) particles with silane and the subsequent coupling by glutaraldehyde to free NH sub(2) groups of the protein. Formation of Schiff's base was confirmed by IR spectroscopy and the optimum loading of the BSA was found to be 73.61%. Surface morphology of the composite was studied by SEM and TEM. Thermal analysis of TiO sub(2)-BSA composite was carried out by TGA and DSC. Structural variation of the BSA after immobilisation was studied by CD spectra.