Preparation of low molecular weight gelatin using microwave discharge electrodeless lamp/TiO₂ photocatalyst hybrid system

In this study, an MDEL/TiO₂ photocatalyst hybrid system was applied to the production of low molecular weight gelatin. The molecular weight of produed gelatin decreased with increasing microwave intensity and increasing treatment time. The abscission of the chemical bonds between the constituents of gelatin by photocatalytic reaction did not alter the characteristics of gelatin. Formation of any by-products due to side reaction was not observed. It is suggested that gelatin was depolymerized by hydroxyl radicals produced during the MDEL/TiO₂ photochemical reaction.