posted on 2006-08-14, 00:00authored byMuris Kobašlija, D. Tyler McQuade
This article describes the creation of a nontoxic, biodegradable coating using calcium alginate and FD&C approved
dyes. The coating is robust but is rapidly removed upon treatment with disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetate
(EDTA). Dye leaching from calcium alginate films was studied, and it was determined that the efficiency of dye
retention is proportional to the degree of cross-linking. Degradation rates were studied on calcium alginate beads
serving as a model for a coating. We determined that degradation rates depend on the gel's cross-linking and on
the amount of EDTA used. Bead size also influenced the degradation rates; smaller beads degraded faster than
larger beads. We show that the coating can be used as an easily removable and environmentally friendly logotype
on an artificial turf surface. Applications of these coatings can be extended to food, cosmetic, medicinal, and
textile uses and to wherever nontoxic, easily removable colored coating is desired.