Preparation of thermoplastic starch/treated bagasse fiber composites

Abstract

The objective was to improve the properties of thermoplastic starch (TPS) by using treated bagasse fiber as a reinforcing agent. Glycerol was used as a plasticizer. The morphology of the fractured surfaces, thermal decomposition temperatures and XRD pattern of the TPS and TPS/treated bagasse fiber composites were investigated using SEM, thermal gravimetric analysis, and XRD, respectively. After immersion in 1% NaOH, the smooth surface of bagasse fiber changed to a rough surface to cause the strong adhesion between the fiber and the TPS matrix was obtained. The treated bagasse fiber decreased the ability to absorb water and also improved the stability of the TPS during storage for a long period of time. The temperature at the maximum weight loss was increased up to 345°C when using the treated bagasse fiber 20 wt%. In addition, the treated bagasse fiber can prevented the retrogradation of starch.