Preparation and characterization of starch-based composite films reinfoced by polysaccharide-based crystals

Starch based films, reinforced by two types of polysaccharide-based crystals, were prepared and compared. The films were transparent and their surface was smooth in appearance. Addition of crystals increased the Young's modulus and tensile strength of starch-based materials and decreased elongation at break. Scanning electron microscopic observation indicated good compatibility between starch matrix and the reinforcing fillers due to same chemical unit (glucose). Cellulose crystals have higher thermal stability than that of starch crystals; this provides better processibility and superior mechanical properties to starch films filled with cellulose crystals. On the other hand, starch films filled with starch crystals demonstrated higher protection againstUV radiation. Since all the components used in this work belong to food sources, the prepared films are biodegradable, safe for food packaging and can also be used to developed ible films (such as wrappers for candies) and medicinal capsules (both soft and hard capsules).