A Comprehensive Characterization of Physicochemical Properties, Functional Characteristics, and Industrial Applications of Gum Arabic

Gum arabic (GA) is a naturally derived, water-soluble polysaccharide characterized by a complex and highly branched molecular architecture. Structurally, GA consists of a polysaccharide backbone predominantly composed of β-D-galactopyranosyl residues linked through (1→3) glycosidic bonds. It is obtained as a natural exudate from Acacia species, primarily Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal, with its physicochemical properties strongly influenced by botanical and geographical origin. Owing to its antimicrobial activity, non-toxic nature, and excellent biocompatibility, GA is widely employed as an excipient in controlled drug delivery systems for the transport of bioactive agents. Additionally, GA finds extensive application in adhesives, food products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and various industrial formulations. Considering its broad applicability in engineering and materials science, this study investigates the physicochemical properties of gum arabic, with a particular emphasis on its structural characteristics and functional performance. The viscosity behavior of GA at varying concentrations was systematically examined to estimate its molecular weight, and modification was performed to enhance its applicability as a functional material. Furthermore, both native and modified forms of gum arabic were comprehensively characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The modification of gum arabic with N, N′-methylenebisacrylamide significantly altered its functional properties. This improvement provides better dispersion and potential bioavailability of active compounds. Its biocompatibility further indicates potential applicability in biomedical fields without implying a hydrogel structure.