Preparation of Cross-Linked High Amylose Corn-Starch and Its Effects on Self-Reinforced Starch Films

Abstract Incorporation of biodegradable self-reinforced starch composite to starch film is a promising method to improve the mechanical property of the film. In this study, cross-linked starch with different degree of cross-linking level was used as matrix to reinforce in the starch film. The thermal properties and mechanical properties of the cross-linked starch were investigated by differential scanning calorimetory (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Instron tensile testing respectively. It was found that the cross-linking level greatly impact on the thermal properties of the cross-linked starch. The gelatinization temperature of starch increased with the increasing level of cross-linking modification. In addition, the cross-linking modification showed a positive effect on the mechanical properties of the starch films when the cross-linking level was controlled at a certain range.