Acid citric cross –linking of starch/ poly(vinyl alcohol) blend

Abstract

In recent times, a number of studies worldwide have focused on strengthening the interaction between the TPS and PVA or modifying with several agents to achieve better mechanical properties, in order to apply in the manufacturing of biodegradable materials. In addition, since both starch and PVA are hydrophilic polymers, they have very strong water absorption ability. In this research, the possibility of cross-linking starch films using citric acid to improve their strength and stability was examined. The study also showed the prospective to limit water absorption of the blend  when solubility of the mixture can be reduced to 40 %.