Blends of thermoplastic cornstarch (TPS) and chitosan (TPC) were obtained by melt extrusion. The effect of TPC incorporation in TPS matrix and polymer interaction on morphology and thermal and mechanical properties were investigated. Possible interactions between the starch molecules and thermoplastic chitosan were assessed by XRD and FTIR techniques. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses showed a homogeneous fracture surface without the presence of starch granules or chitosan aggregates. Although the incorporation of thermoplastic chitosan caused a decrease in both tensile strength and stiffness, films with better extensibility and thermal stability were produced.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

This work aims to develop composite films from renewable sources and to use a residue from the brewing industry, malt bagasse, as a reinforcing agent. The composites were prepared with 0–15 wt%/wt% of malt bagasse, using the continuous casting process. All films were characterized in terms of their microstructure, physicochemical, mechanical, and photodegradation properties. The properties of the films were influenced by the concentration variation of the malt bagasse fiber, allowing the deformation of the films to increase by approximately 57%. The incorporation of 15 wt%/wt% of malt bagasse provided a reduction in the water vapor transmission rate and in the hygroscopicity of the pectin films. However, the fibers acted as UV light blockers, making it difficult to photodegradate the films. Therefore, the composite films based on pectin and malt bagasse presented adequate properties to be used in the packaging industry.

No abstract

No abstract