The current study investigated the physicochemical and structural properties of different ratios of psyllium gum (PG) and modified starch (MS) (100:0, 50:50, 75:25, 0:100) composite films. The results indicated that the moisture content, water solubility, water vapor permeability (WVP), and tensile strength (TS) of films decreased with increasing proportions of PG. However, the films’ elongation at break (EB) increased with gum content >50%. Cross‐sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of composite films showed homogeneity, integrity, and a smooth structure. The results of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated a reduction of thermal stability with increasing proportions of PG. The films’ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra indicated miscibility and good interactions between MS and PG. These findings were in agreement with the results of physicochemical, mechanical, morphological, and thermal analyses. The PG/MS composite films with improved properties have potential for use in food packaging.
Practical applications
The film forming is a technique that polymer(s) combine with together and may be created cross‐linked between them. The combination of polymers for film forming was used for reinforcement and stability the films networks. In this study, the composite edible films of psyllium gum/modified starch made and the physicochemical, mechanical, and structural properties of films was measured.