Effect of plasticizer type and concentration on physical properties of biodegradable films based on sugar palm (arenga pinnata) starch for food packaging

Abstract

In this study, sugar palm starch (SPS) films were developed using glycerol (G), sorbitol (S) or their combination (GS) as plasticizers at the ratio of 15, 30 and 45 (wt)% using casting technique. The addition of plasticizers to SPS film-forming solutions helped to overcome the brittle and fragile nature of unplasticized SPS films. Increased plasticizer concentration resulted to an increase in film thickness, moisture content and solubility. On the contrary, density and water absorption of plasticized films decreased with increasing plasticizer concentration. Raising the plasticizer content from 15 to 45 % showed less effect on the moisture content and water absorption of S-plasticized films. Films containing glycerol and glycerol-sorbitol plasticizer (G, and GS) demonstrated higher moisture content, solubility and water absorption capacity compared to S-plasticized films. The results obtained in this study showed that plasticizer type and concentration significantly improves film properties and enhances their suitability for food packaging applications.

Effect of Sugar Palm-derived Cellulose Reinforcement on the Mechanical and Water Barrier Properties of Sugar Palm Starch Biocomposite Films

“…The micrograph of the virgin SPS films showed a smooth and continuous surface with no trace of starch granular or cracks. Similar observations were reported by Sanyang et al (2016) and Dias et al (2011) for neat sugar palm starch and rice flour films, respectively. On the other hand, the addition of 10 wt.% SPC to a virgin SPS film (SPS-C10) displayed an even, random distribution of SPC within the SPS matrix, without pores or cracks.…”

“…Similar reports have been documented regarding the surface appearance of many natural fiber-derived celluloses (Sgriccia et al 2008;Tawakkal et al 2012;Tee et al 2013). Sanyang et al (2016). "Palm fiber reinforced starch," BioResources 11(2), 4134-4145.…”

“…In fact, Bilbao-Sainz et al (2011) reported that cellulose fibers must be well-dispersed into the polymeric matrix to enhance the functional properties of the composite. Composite film samples Sanyang et al (2016). "Palm fiber reinforced starch," BioResources 11(2), 4134-4145.…”

Effect of Plasticizer Type and Concentration on Tensile, Thermal and Barrier Properties of Biodegradable Films Based on Sugar Palm (Arenga pinnata) Starch

“…This phenomenon happens when the plasticizer concentration is more than its compatibility limits, subsequently, causing phase separation. The phase separation in G45 and GS45 can possible justify the high stickiness of these films reported in the authors' previous work [83].…”

Sugar Palm Fibre and its Composites: A Review of Recent Developments

“…Sugar palm fibre has better water resistance than biopolymers from sugar palm starch, but this can be overcome with further research by modification of the biomatrix. The starch from sugar palm tree can be plasticized and formed into a film for food packaging (Sanyang et al 2015(Sanyang et al , 2016a. (Bachtiar et al 2008; …”