The effects of inclusions and conditions of storage on the mechanical properties of maize starch and methylcellulose films.

Abstract

Films of methylcellulose and gelatinized maize starch were tested in tension, with and without 0.01-10% of additive in the film. The effects of these inclusions on the physical properties of the films have been found to be statistically significant in almost every case. The films, with and without inclusions, have also been conditioned at four different relative humidities and the behaviour of these films has also been considered. In general films were weakened by the presence of additives particularly at higher concentrations. The properties of methylcellulose films were changed most at specific concentrations of the inclusions, this effect was not found with maize starch films. Plasticization of maize starch films was not achieved.