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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Peoria, Illinois » National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research » Plant Polymer Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #104675
Title: BIODEGRADABLE LAMINATES AND COMPOSITES CONTAINING STARCH AND POLY (HYDROXYESTER-ETHERS)

Author
item Shogren, Randal
item Lawton Jr, John
item DOANE, WILLIAM - BRADLEY UNIVERSITY
item Willett, Julious

Submitted to: Society of Plastics Engineers Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/7/2000
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Poly(hydroxyester-ethers) (PHEE) were added to a variety of thermoplastic starch composites in order to improve the mechanical and water-resistant properties of these systems. Thin film coatings of PHEE's were found to adhere well to starch sheets and foams and provided resistance to cold water over short periods of time (hours-days). Adhesion was decreased by high water or glycerol contents in the starch and was increased by additio of partially hydrolysed polyvinyl alcohol. Extruder starch foam peanuts containing 5-10% PHEE were found to have a thin surface layer consisting mainly of PHEE. This probably explains, at least in part, why the starch/PHEE foams have a higher expansion ratio, greater water-resistance, and reduced friability compared to foams made from starch alone. This research was conducted under CRADA 58-3K95-8-0635 between the Agricultural Research Service and Biotechnology Research and Development Corp.