An overview on plasticized biodegradable corn starch-based films: the physicochemical properties and gelatinization...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Growing environmental concerns drive the need for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based materials.
• Corn starch is a promising renewable resource for biodegradable packaging due to its availability and film-forming capabilities.
• Limitations in mechanical and barrier properties hinder the widespread application of native starch-based films.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the gelatinization of starch granules and the impact of plasticizers on corn starch-based films.
• To explore different types of biodegradable films and modified starches.
• To analyze the influence of plasticizers on the physicochemical properties of corn starch films.

Main Methods:

• Modification of corn starch with various plasticizers.
• Characterization of starch granule changes during gelatinization.
• Evaluation of the mechanical and barrier properties of the resulting films.
• Assessment of physicochemical properties influenced by plasticizers.

Main Results:

• Plasticizers improve film elongation, flexibility, and tensile strength.
• Plasticization can alter film continuity, enhancing overall properties.
• An important trade-off exists: improved mechanical strength often correlates with reduced water resistance.

Conclusions:

• Plasticized corn starch films represent a viable eco-friendly packaging material.
• Careful selection and optimization of plasticizers are crucial for balancing desired properties.
• Further research is needed to overcome the water sensitivity challenge in starch-based biodegradable films.