Synthesis and Characterization of Starch Based Biocomposite Films and Their Degradation Behavior--An Alternative to the Conventional Polymer

Abstract

Plastics are being used all over the world starting from drinking cups and disposable silverware to parts for automobiles and motorcycles. But in spite of its varied usages, its disposal has threatened the environment. Thus this work outlines the synthesis of a biodegradable plastic that can meet the demand and can be disposed to the environment. Synthesis of biodegradable plastics was done using starch compiled with sucrose, glycerol and PVA. Various composites of these ingredients were combined and synthesized to test the feasibility of the prepared polymer. The tensile strength, bio- degradation rate, TGA, DTA, FTIR analysis and capacity of water absorption of the films were carried out to analyze the film properties. Biodegradation study was conducted by burying the prepared polymer under the soil and the micro-organism responsible for its degradation was identified