Heat plasticization of starch by extrusion in the presence of plasticizers

Abstract

The paper is a literature review concerning the heat plasticization of natural starch. Basic properties of starch, its structure and usefulness as a biodegradable thermoplastic material, produced from renewable resources, are characterized. Extrusion of starch in the presence of plasticizers, mainly glycerin, was discussed. This one-stage and continuous process is accompanying with degradation process of the polysaccharide chains. The effects of selected parameters of extrusion and content of plasticizer on some mechanical properties of the final starch material were presented.