Starch Based Biodegradable Nanocomposites: Structure and Properties

In this research plasticized starch (PS) based nanocomposites with varying montmorillonite clay (M) content (1 to 6 wt. %) are investigated. Focus is laid on the development of the fabrication technology of the nanocomposites by using solution intercalation method. Structure, as well as tensile properties and moisture sorption-desorption kinetics of the PS/M nanocomposites are investigated in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the nanocomposite’s fabrication technology. According to the results of the structural, mechanical and sorption properties of the nanocomposites it is concluded that best manufacturing procedure of the PS/M nanocomposites should include several important technological steps: (1) proper preparation of the M dispersion in the distilled water; (2) treatment of the M dispersion with ultrasound (US) at specific technological parameters; (3) fabrication of the PS/M nanocomposites with defined amounts of water, glycerol, starch and M. Based on the results of these investigations mathematical models for characterization of the elastic and sorption properties of the PS/M nanocomposite are developed