Study of the effect of the regime parameters of mechanical foaming of keratin hydrolysate with a thickener in foam concrete technology

The modern concept of building new-generation residential buildings, focused on energy efficiency, environmental safety, economic feasibility and flexibility of planning solutions, creates a steady demand for lightweight, durable and durable thermal insulation materials. In this context, foam concrete is of considerable interest, and its key component is highly effective foaming agents. The development of protein foaming agents based on hydrolysates of keratin–containing raw materials, in particular, poultry processing waste - peropukhovy raw materials, which makes it possible to solve the problem of recycling secondary resources, is recognized as a promising direction. The aim of the study was to develop a resource-saving technology for producing a dry foaming agent based on keratin hydrolysate. As an alternative to the energy-intensive vacuum–radiation drying process and the expensive pre–concentration stage, it is proposed to use the introduction of a thickener, guar gum, followed by convective drying. The authors scientifically substantiated and experimentally confirmed the choice of guar gum as a rational rheological modifier. It has been found that it forms a stable structural framework that effectively prevents the drainage and coalescence of bubbles, and demonstrates synergy with protein components, providing high kinetic stability of the foam. The article presents the results of determining the rational parameters of the foaming process: the whisk rotation speed is 1600 rpm and the duration is 180 seconds, which ensures the maximum multiplicity and stability of the foam structure. It was found that the introduction of guar gum at a concentration of 0.35...0.40% makes it possible to obtain a foam with high stability (half-life of 35...40 minutes) and optimal structural and mechanical properties suitable for effective removal and subsequent convective drying. The comparison with known analogues confirms the adequacy and competitiveness of the results obtained, which makes it possible to recommend this technology for implementation in production practice.