EFFECT OF DRYING ON THE ENCAPSULATION OF BEAUVERIA BASSIANA IN A POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITE MATRIZ

The use of polymeric matrices in the encapsulation of entomopathogenic fungi ensures the preservation of the inherent characteristics of the fungi, protecting them against external factors. However, depending on the dehydration technique used, the encapsulation capacity of the bioactive compound may be compromised. Thus, an encapsulation matrix in the form of beads of the fungus Beauveria bassiana composed of alginate and bentonite was developed through ionotropic gelation and subjected to different drying techniques. The matrix was characterized using XRPD and FTIR techniques, which confirmed the interaction between the compounds. The products were evaluated in terms of: average particle size, swelling index and in vitro release. Beads dried through lyophilization presented a higher average particle size, as well as enhanced water absorption capacity. The release analysis revealed the barrier effect exerted by the clay, acting as a protective agent against damage to the fungus caused by the lyophilization process.