Starch biocomposite modified by hydroxypropylation reaction reinforced with açaí residue

Abstract

Chemical modification by hydroxypropylation reactions will be carried out in cassava starch and cellulose, to obtain a biocomposite of thermoplastic starch reinforced with lignocellulosic fibers from açaí residue. Hydroxypropylation will be performed in an autoclave reactor, where compositions with partially modified and unmodified fibers will be compared. The reaction success will be evaluated by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), the degree of substitution (DS) by Elemental Analysis (EA) and surface energy by contact angle, with subsequent evaluation of crystallinity and thermal properties, through the techniques of X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetry (TG). The morphological analysis will be performed using the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) technique. It is expected that the biocomposite produced by hydroxypropylation present lower gelatinization temperatures and retrogradation rates, with lower moisture absorption, greater thermal stability and hydrophobicity, expanding the possibility of application of this material as packaging for several segments. Obtaining improved materials by chemical modification represents a major technological advance, enabling its commercial application, in view of the current market progression that is increasingly responsible for the environment. (AU)