Abstract
Citric acid-modified starch nanoparticles with an average size of 82 nm were prepared through precipitation from gelatinized starch solution by ethanol and further modification with citric acid. When being incorporated in glycerol-plasticized soy protein plastics, citric acid-modified starch nanoparticles displayed dramatic reinforcing effect. The resulted nanocomposite plastics exhibited improvement in mechanical performance. Also, the water uptake decreased, indicating an increase of water resistance. The modified starch nanoparticles had a good compatibility with soy protein matrix. Possessing a relative hydrophobic surface, the filler would prefer to interact with protein-rich domains in glycerol-plasticized soy protein. The work provided a green approach of biodegradable materials based on naturally occurring biopolymers.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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
