Abstract
Thermoplastic starch (TPS) foams was prepared by melt extrusion process and the effects of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glycerol/water plasticizer contents on the physical and cellular properties of these foams were investigated. All TPS/PVA blended foams showed more uniform cellular morphology, lower density and higher cell density than the TPS foam. The density of TPS foam decreased about 70%, and cell density increased up to 60-fold by adding 20% PVA. In addition to the positive effect of the PVA on improving processability and cellular uniformity, it also acted as a polymeric plasticizer and adding it allowed to decrease another low molecular weight plasticizer content in TPS/PVA blends. As a result by statistical analysis significant improvements in expansion ratio (256%), cell density (60 times), and lower moisture absorption (60%) were achieved.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
