Physical, mechanical, biodegradable properties and energy absorption behavior of corn grit-polyvinyl alcohol cushioning extrudates

The focus of the study was on the effects of PVA ratio (PR), screw speed (SS) and die temperature (DT) on the physical, mechanical, biodegradable properties and energy absorption behavior of corn grit/PVA cushioning extrudates. The experimental results indicated that PR had a significant effect on the radial expansion ratio, bulk density, compressibility, spring index and biodegradable properties. SS had a significant effect on the radial expansion ratio, compressibility, spring index, biodegradable properties and the radial expansion ratio. DT had a most significant effect on the compressibility and spring index of the extrudates. Corn grit blended with 5% of PVA had the minimum total energy absorption (TEA) and energy absorption of each cycle (EAEC). All treatments of the extrudates had the maximum energy absorption at the crosshead speed 400 mm/min. The resultant extrudates were suitable for packaging applications especially cushioning materials.