A recent review published in Engineering explores the innovative applications and design principles of starch-based superwettable systems, highlighting the potential of starch as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic polymers. The study, titled “Design Principles and Emerging Applications of Starch-Involved Superwettable Systems,” was authored by Fan Wang, Rongrong Ma, Jingling Zhu, Wei Ma, Jun Li, and Yaoqi Tian, and it delves into the unique contributions of starch in creating advanced functional materials with superwettable properties.

Superwettable systems, inspired by natural phenomena such as the lotus leaf’s water-repellent surface and cicada wings’ antibacterial properties, have garnered significant attention in recent years. These systems exhibit extreme wetting behaviors, such as superhydrophobicity (water-repellent) and superhydrophilicity (water-attracting), and have found applications in various fields including packaging, water treatment, and biomedical engineering. Starch, a natural polymer derived from crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes, has emerged as a promising candidate for these systems due to its biodegradability, non-toxicity, and low cost.
The review introduces the fundamental theories and design principles underlying starch-based superwettable systems. It explains that wettability, a measure of how a liquid interacts with a surface, is influenced by surface energy and topography. Starch, with its intrinsic properties such as hydrophilicity, film-forming ability, and adhesiveness, can be chemically modified to achieve desired wetting behaviors. The study discusses how starch can be utilized in various forms, including colloidal systems, zero-dimensional (0D) granules, one-dimensional (1D) fibers, two-dimensional (2D) films, and three-dimensional (3D) porous materials.

One of the key highlights of the review is the application of starch in functional biomaterials. For instance, starch-based micelles with zwitterionic groups have been developed to create drug delivery platforms that can evade immune detection and prolong circulation time in the body. Additionally, starch has been used to create superhydrophobic coatings for paper and other substrates, providing water-repellent properties that can enhance durability and reduce waste in packaging applications.

The study also explores the use of starch in water treatment technologies, particularly in oil–water separation. Starch-based porous materials and fibrous membranes have been engineered to selectively repel water while absorbing oil, making them effective for cleaning up oil spills and treating industrial wastewater. Furthermore, starch has been incorporated into food products to modulate taste and texture. For example, the rapid wetting behavior of popcorn, attributed to its superhydrophilic nature, has been linked to its pleasant taste during chewing.

The review emphasizes the importance of starch in creating sustainable and biodegradable materials. As the global focus shifts towards environmental sustainability, starch offers a green alternative to non-biodegradable synthetic polymers. The authors highlight the potential for further research and development in this area, suggesting that starch-based superwettable systems could play a crucial role in addressing environmental and health challenges.

The review presents a comprehensive overview of the design principles and emerging applications of starch-based superwettable systems. It underscores the versatility and potential of starch in creating advanced materials with unique wetting properties. As researchers continue to explore the capabilities of starch, we can expect to see more innovative applications in various industries, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

The paper “Design Principles and Emerging Applications of Starch-Involved Superwettable Systems,” is authored by Fan Wang, Rongrong Ma, Jingling Zhu, Wei Ma, Jun Li, Yaoqi Tian. Full text of the open access paper: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eng.2025.04.022. For more information about Engineering, visit the website at https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/engineering.