| dc.description.abstract | Many useful material properties specifications and mechanical functionalities of
biodegradable polymers are comparable to conventional plastics. However, the
resistance of synthetic polymers to physical, chemical, or biological degradation has
caused serious environmental problems. To overcome these problems, biopolymers
are being suggested as safer alternatives. In this study, the synthesis of
thermoplastic starch-based biopolymer from starch reinforced with sawdust was
investigated. Glycerol was used as a plasticizer and acetic acid resisted the fungus to
be formed and spread throughout the surface. Biopolymer composites were
prepared with various percentages of sawdust (20%, 40%, & 60%) compared to the
dry matter of cassava starch. Starch from both edible sources (cassava & jackfruit
seeds) and non-edible sources (mango seeds & avocado seeds) and sawdust (~350
μm) from teak were used. The chemical and physical properties of these composites
were analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron
Microscope, biodegradability, tensile strength, water solubility, water absorption
capacity, and moisture content. Unmodified teak sawdust was soaked in 5% of NaOH
(aq) solution and washed until base free. Unmodified starch with chemically
modified sawdust (S/CMSD) composite resulted in higher tensile strength values
compared to the composites with both chemically modified starch with unmodified
sawdust (CMS/USD), and unmodified starch with unmodified sawdust (S/USD)
composites. S/CMSD & CMS/USD composites had the lowest values for water
solubility and biodegradability than S/USD composites. Water solubility,
biodegradability, water absorption capacity, tensile strength, and moisture content
were decreased with increasing sawdust percentage. These results indicate that
S/CMSD and CMS/USD have great potential in the production of biodegradable
packaging material. | en_US |
