Proof of concept

In the context of composition analysis using HPAEC, we could prove that xyloglucan was implemented in the Bacterial Cellulose mat when growing it in media with 0,5% (w/v) of xyloglucan (XG) or washing it with a 0,5% (w/v) XG solution. There, the effect of growing the mat with XG was greater than washing it with a XG solution.

With our tensile strength tests later on with mats grown with different concentrations of xyloglucan in the media, we could prove that xyloglucan reduces the tensile strength and elasticity of bacterial cellulose mats (with 0,25% (w/v) xyloglucan concentration increasing the tensile strength while lowering elasticity).

In the same test, we could prove that washing the bacterial cellulose with a 1% (w/v) NaOH solution in addition to washing with deionized water, not only helps to remove media stains but also increases tensile strength and elasticity.

In terms of drying conditions, drying in a drying cabinet at 50°C shows to increase the tensile strength and elasticity of BC mats compared to parchment drying.

Our data

after initial inoculation: