Durable and recyclable thermoplastic starch compositions and methods of manufacture thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to novel starch-based additives and the blends of biodegradable thermoplastic polyesters with the starch-based additive, as well as the method for production thereof. The starch-based additive encompasses starches, acidifiers, alkalizers, plasticizers, and optionally compatibilizers and coupling agents, and fillers. The starch-based additive of the invention could be 100 % bio-based and it is melt processable and miscible with biodegradable thermoplastic polyesters. The invention also relates to the novel thermoplastic starch (TPS) compositions, methods of preparation and use thereof. The TPS compositions of the invention exhibit long-term durability of its mechanical properties, long-term processability and recyclability, and high thermal stability. Hence, the elimination of the retrogradation phenomenon in TPS, a drawback well known for TPS, is achieved.

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