Tailoring physicochemical properties of collagen-based composites with ionic liquids and wool for advanced applications

Wool, choline dihydrogen phosphate ([Ch][DHP]) or serinate ([Ch][Seri) ionic liquids (ILs) were incorporated into native collagen formulations and films prepared by compression molding. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed no agglomeration, indicating good dispersion of additives within films. The denaturation peak observed differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), along with infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results, that fibrillary structure was preserved in all samples. These outcomes correlated X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. Wool ILs addition increased tensile strength improved electrical conductivity antistatic behaviour. samples a high dielectric constant, mainly determined mobile charge contributions. This work shows the potential tuneable physical-chemical characteristics for new generation sustainable materials wide variety applications. • Homogeneous easy to handle wool obtained compression. Results prevalence fibrillar structure. Incorporation both mechanical properties.