Biopolymer films synthesis and characterisation

Abstract

In this study, three biopolymer films were synthesized: zein (protein), gelatin (protein), and starch (polysaccharide) films and characterized by determining mechanical and physico-chemical properties. Gelatin films proved to be the strongest (tensile strength 84 N/15 mm), while the zein were most flexible (elongation at break 41.6 %). Moisture content was higher in starch films, which is a result of the hydrophilic nature of the polysaccharide films. Swelling degree was 22.5 % for zein, 90.9 % for gelatin, while the highest average value was recorded in starch film samples (840.6 %). Starch films had highest value of solubility degree (36.5 %), while zein film had 27.9 % and gelatin film had 11.85 %.Obtained characterization results are consequences of the different structure of the raw materials and synthesis routes. All undesirable characteristics could be improved by optimizing the composition of the film, as well as synthesis of composite/laminated films.