Stabilization of beta-carotene embedded in a silica matrix and study of its physical properties

This work reports on the behavior of beta-carotene within a silica matrix prepared by the sol-gel method. Results show that highly pure beta-carotene integrates with the silica to form a silica-based composite. The interaction exhibited between the inorganic matrix and the beta-carotene results in a pi-d conjugated system that guarantees the development of the protective mechanism of the beta-carotene and stabilizes the organic molecule, allowing its preservation at high calcination temperature. The spectroscopic analysis, made through fluorescence emission and infrared spectroscopy, shows the presence of beta-carotene within the silica matrix after the composite was calcined at 1000 degrees C. Furthermore, the structural interactions of the beta-carotene with the silica and the protective function of the beta-carotene change the crystallization route naturally followed by the silica when exposed to increasing temperature. In this case, the amorphous silica matrix is preserved after high-temperature calcination, which is beneficial for biomedical applications as it allows the release and transport of the beta-carotene to take full advantage of its health benefits.