ARS | Publication request: BIODEGRADABLE STARCH-POLYESTER BLENDS AND COMPOSITES

Submitted to: Cereal Foods World
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 17, 1998
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Starch has received considerable attention in recent years as a low-cost raw material for applications where biodegradability is a desired attribute. It is often used in combination with higher-cost biodegradable polyesters, such as poly(hydroxy alkanoate)s (PHAs) or poly(hydroxyester ether)s (PHEEs). The impact of starch on the properties of the composite materials is determined by whether the starch is used in its native granular form or converted to a thermoplastic. Recent results of USDA research in starch-polyester composite materials will be presented, with particular emphasis on the role of starch on mechanical properties, water sorption and biodegradability.