Rice thermoplastic starch nanocomposite films reinforced with nanocellulose

Abstract

Abstract Rice starch is a raw material with proven potential in obtaining biodegradable polymers. Plasticization improves the flexibility characteristics of starch-based films, although they still tend to have low tensile strength and high hydrophilicity. The addition of nanocellulosic materials is an alternative to improve these characteristics. In this chapter, the effects of adding different sources and concentrations of nanocellulose (NC) on the properties of thermoplastic rice starch films (TRSF) are addressed. One can highlight as main effects the increase of tensile strength and transparency of the films, the reduction of water vapor permeability and water solubility. The type of NC used, the way it is obtained, as well as its interaction with starch molecules are factors that influence the effects. Further studies involving the interaction of TRSF and NC should be conducted in order to overcome the lack of information.