Blends and composites of exopolysaccharides; properties and applications: A review

Exopolysaccharides are synthesized by bacteria and secreted into the external environment and they may be homopolymeric or heteropolymeric in configuration. They are believed to protect bacterial cells from heavy metals, desiccation or other environmental effect. EPS exhibit antitumor, anti-HIV, emulsion stabilization capacity, shear-thinning activity, suspension ability, high viscosities, excellent biocompatibility, high biodegradability and immunomodulatory properties. They are widely used in herbicides, functional food, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals, insecticides, immunomodulation and anticoagulants. This review shed light on the properties and versatile applications of xanthan, curdlan, hyaluronic acid and dextran blends and composites with natural and synthetic polymers. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.