Investigation of physical and environmental behaviour on corn starch

Anuar, Nur’ain Nazzeha (2022) Investigation of physical and environmental behaviour on corn starch. Project Report. Melaka, Malaysia, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka. (Submitted)

	Text (24 Pages) Investigation of physical and environmental behaviour on corn starch.pdf - Submitted Version Download (331kB)
	Text (Full Text) Investigation of physical and environmental behaviour on corn starch.pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (6MB)

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to prepare and fabricate a matrix sample test from corn starch mix with plasticzer (glycerol). Then to characterize the matrix on biodegradability using soil burial testing and water solubility method. Lastly, to find the physical behaviour by using density, moisture content and water absorption testing. Composites are materials that are created by mixing two or more natural or artificial elements with various physical or chemical qualities to create a substance that is stronger as a group that as separate components. Composite materials are being invented and redesigned with the goal of improving and adapting traditional products while also introducing new products in a sustainable and appropriate way. A composite has a continuous component known as the matrix and a discrete or discontinuous component known as the fillers. Thermoplastics are polymeric materials that can be reformed (melted and hardened) repeatedly while retaining their properties. Some researchers have investigated the development and characterization of starch-based films made from cassava, sago, agar, sugar palm and many more. All these starches are potential biopolymer material for making biodegradable films. Corn is one of the most abundant sources of plant residue, offering a number of advantages such as high starch levels, outstanding uniformity, performance, ease of availability, and biodegradability. This source accounts for more than 60% of total plastic auxiliary yield. Glycerol is a valuable by-product produced in a variety of methods and by a variety of industries. Before beginning the testing, we must prepare the sample first. The sample is made of a mixture of corn starch and a plasticizer which is glycerol. For the mixture, hand mixed manually the corn starch and glycerol first before mixing using blender for two to three minutes. Then put the mixed material into the mold with the size of 140 x 60 mm, before press it in hot press machine under 25 kg/cm2 pressure. Before proceeding to hot press process, pre-heat the mold in the machine first for 15 minutes with temperature 165°C. After that, hot press the mold for 15 minutes with the same temperature then cooling process also for 15 minutes. Next, take out the sample from mold by using 10 tons press machine and the sample is ready to be cut by using cutting machine. The density of a material is an essential attribute to consider throughout the material selection process. A water absorption test is widely performed to determine how much water a material absorbs over a period of time. The equilibrium moisture content of thermoplastic was measured using moisture content. The term “water solubility” refers to a material’s ability to resist water. Water solubility, in other hand, indicates how a substance degrades when immersed in water. The weight loss due to moisture and microorganism activity during the soil burial phase can be used to estimate a material's biodegradation characteristic. There are some recommendations provided to extend understanding of corn starch behaviour from this project. Suggest various type of plasticizers such as sorbitol, urea, fructose and other to investigate the behaviour and properties of corn starch. To increase the strength of thermoplastic. by adding multiple forms of plant fibers such as kenaf, banana leaf, pineapple leaf, bamboo, and others.

Actions (login required)

View Item