Prospects and Applications of Starch based Biopolymers
Shilpi Agarwal, Shailey Singhal, Chirag B. Godiya, Sanjay Kumar
Abstract
Starch-based biopolymers occupy a significant place in polymer world for replacing plastics derived from petrochemicals. Their non-toxicity, bio-compatible nature and comparable mechanical and degradation properties make them suitable candidates for various applications, including packaging sector. Starch derived from a variety of agricultural waste is converted to bio-composites by chemical modification in the presence of plasticisers and other chemical moieties. These bio-polymers are biodegradable in nature; however, they are associated with certain disadvantages, such as brittleness, moisture sensitivity, and poor thermal and mechanical properties. Efforts are being made by researchers to overcome these challenges by various strategies in order to make it at par to the conventional plastic. Few companies have initiated using starch-based biopolymers for producing commercial products, but scientific world definitely demands significant studies that can enhance the properties of this material to an appreciable extent. This will also help in reducing the production cost and improving the overall economy of biopolymers’ segment.