Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Molecular Entanglement and Electrospinnability of Biopolymers
Published on: September 3, 2014
Chemistry and properties of starch based desiccants
1Laboratory of Renewable Resources Engineering and Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 47907, IN, USA
Abstract:
Desiccants currently used in industry include molecular sieves, lithium chloride, silica gel, and corn grits. Of these, only corn grits (a form of ground corn) are biodegradable and derived from a renewable resource. A major component of the corn grits, starch, is the primary adsorptive material in the corn grits. Other polysaccharides, including cellulose and hemicellulose also have adsorptive properties. The use of alpha-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) to modify porosity and surface properties of starch resulted in materials with enhanced water sorption properties compared to the native material. This paper reviews the chemical and structural properties of starch, corn grits, and cellulose-based scaffolds on which starch can be affixed, in order to attain structures that might someday find uses in a range of desiccant applications for industrial, commercial, and residential processes.
Related Concept Videos
Colloids
Precipitation of Ions
The equation that describes the equilibrium between solid calcium carbonate and its solvated ions is:
Chemistry of Carbohydrates
Sugars as Energy Storage Molecules
Physical Properties of Carboxylic Acid Derivatives
Among the carboxylic acid derivatives, the boiling points of acid chlorides and esters are very similar and are the lowest in the series. Acid anhydrides have slightly higher boiling...
Production of Organic Acids

