Starch, Glycerol and Acetic Acid-Based Films: Investigating the Impact of Starch and Acetic Acid Contents on Film Properties

Abstract

This study investigates the properties and degradability of starch-based biofilms as sustainable, non-toxic, and biodegradable materials, emphasizing the effects of starch content and plasticizers on their performance. Starch biofilms are produced by casting a water solution that utilizes glycerol as a plasticizer and acetic acid as a co-plasticizer. A comprehensive analysis of the films was conducted, assessing various properties such as water absorption, swelling, water vapor transmission rate, water vapor permeability, environmental degradation, thermal decomposition, and tensile strength. The findings reveal that the addition of acetic acid significantly improves the physical properties of the starch biofilms, while the starch content predominantly influences their physical and mechanical characteristics. Notably, all film samples demonstrated excellent soil degradability, with substantial breakdown observed after just one month of burial in the soil garden. This research contributes to the field of biodegradable materials by showcasing the effectiveness of starch biofilms as an eco-friendly alternative, highlighting the role of plasticizers in enhancing their performance and confirming their environmental sustainability through rapid degradation in soil.