Martina DOE 2026

This scientific project utilizes a combined Mixture and Process Design of Experiments (DOE) approach to systematically optimize the formulation and production of highly stable and functionalized Alginate Hydrogel Beads. These beads are intended for advanced applications such as targeted drug delivery systems, enzyme immobilization, or environmental remediation requiring magnetic separation capabilities.

The core objective is to understand the complex interactions between the structural components and the cross-linking mechanism. The Mixture Design focuses on balancing the structural integrity provided by Alginate (Alg, the primary gelling agent) against the incorporation of the functional additive, Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNP, required for magnetic responsiveness), and a significant secondary component (NcM2), which may influence bead porosity, encapsulation efficiency, or structural modulus.

The study specifically investigates the concentration range of the critical ingredients: low Alginate concentrations (1.0% to 4.0%) ensure injectability or easy processing, while MNP concentration is tightly controlled (up to 0.8%) to maximize magnetic moment without compromising the structural matrix. The highly variable NcM2 component (up to 25%) allows for broad exploration of secondary matrix influences.

Furthermore, the critical process variable, Calcium ion concentration, is tested at two distinct levels (1 mM and 5 mM). Since Calcium dictates the rate and extent of ionic cross-linking in alginate, testing these levels will reveal the formulation's sensitivity to cross-linker density, ultimately determining the final bead properties such as mechanical strength, swelling ratio, and material erosion rate. The resulting data will yield a predictive model for producing beads that simultaneously meet stringent requirements for magnetic susceptibility and mechanical robustness.