Chemical and mechanical modification of starch-based packaging materials. Starch, an abundant and biodegradable polymer, is an attractive alternative to petroleum-based plastics in many applications,

Description

Chemical and mechanical modification of starch-based packaging materials. Starch, an abundant and biodegradable polymer, is an attractive alternative to petroleum-based plastics in many applications, including packaging adhesives. However, the complex nature of starch and tendency to degrade during processing pose significant challenges to developing advanced adhesives. The goal is to gain a deep understanding of how starch changes during processing at a molecular level, and how additives influence these changes. The project will further study a novel processing method for starch, and its effect on starch structure, which remains unexplored. This project has potential to generate valuable IP, produce new environmentally sustainable materials, and contribute to the growth of bioplastics industries in Australia.. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3403 - Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry. Lead: Prof Andrew Whittaker