Preparation and characterization of polymeric films based on PLA, PBAT and corn starch and babassu mesocarp starch by flat extrusion

Abstract

Abstract This research aims to evaluate the application of babassu mesocarp starch in the development of polymeric films compared to corn starch widely exploited due to its abundance and worldwide availability. Thus, films based on blends of poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) containing commercial corn starch or starch extracted from the babassu mesocarp were developed by means of flat extrusion. The films were characterized and the results indicate that the color, wettability and surfaces depend on the type of starch added. Films containing babassu mesocarp starch present rougher, opaque surfaces with greater water resistance than those with corn starch. The data from this research suggest that both babassu mesocarp and corn starch are alternatives for the production of polymeric films.