Effect of acetic anhydride and citric acid modification on biodegradability of cassava starch nanocomposite films

Abstract

The effect of acetic acid and citric acid modification of cassava starch on the biodegradability of their films reinforced with lignin and nanofiber was determined. Cassava starch was first modified with acetic anhydride and citric acid, characterized, filled with lignin and nanofiber to produce the films. Biodegradation studies were based on determinations of water absorption capacity, soil burial, enzyme degradation and reducing sugar (glucose). Results showed that great variations in water absorption capacities, weight loss in soil, enzyme degradation and reducing sugar were observed with TPS (Thermoplastic starch) having the fasted and highest water uptake, weight loss in soil, enzyme degradation and glucose equivalents while the modified starches had the slowest and least values compared with the native starch. Thus, acetic anhydride and citric acid modification improved the cross linking of the native starch thereby making it less biodegradable but not affecting its overall biodegradability.