Plasticiser casein

Plastics materials may be produced from casein by plasticising with water, extrusion and then cross-linking with formaldehyde (formolisation). The resultant products have a pleasant horn-like texture and are useful for decorative purposes. The amount of casein produced has decreased since World War n but was still one of the preferred materials for use in the decorative button industry until quite recently. 

Casein is a natural polymer extracted from skim milk proteins. It represents a small but important percentage of all the natural polymers used for the manufacturing of water-based adhesives. The casein formulations are highly soluble in alkaline solutions and in water. Casein polymers (modified or not) are mainly used in the manufacture of adhesives and the packaging industry for breweries, wineries and refrigerated products. Casein is also a binder for paints and an additive for adhesives formulations. It can also be used as a plasticiser for concrete. Beyer Richard (2002) demonstrated die feasibility of preparing casein polymer to make edible films and for food products containing this polymer. 

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