Evaluation of polymerizing compounds in films based on biomass polysaccharides

• Grant number: 20/14933-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2021
• End date: November 30, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Michel Brienzo
• Grantee: Letícia Torres Vasconcelos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisa em Bioenergia (IPBEN). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/22401-8 - Fruit-refinery: obtention processes, characterization methods and generation of products derived from residues of the fruitculture, AP.TEM

Abstract

The environment is in a complex situation in relation to contamination by plastics, due to its non-biodegradable nature. To reduce this contamination and irregular disposition, the use of biodegradable plastics can be an environmentally friendly solution. In this context, this project aims to study different plasticizing compounds, compatibilizers, and polymerization initiators, in order to improve the properties of films based on polysaccharides from biomass plants, such as xylan and starch. Different combinations between these chemical compounds will be carried out, aiming to obtain a film with properties that make it capable of competing with commercial packaging, regarding its microbiological degradation. The films will be evaluated for their physical-chemical properties (thickness, opacity, water-solubility, humidity, and grammage). As a result of this project, it is expected to produce a film based on polysaccharides, with mechanical and biodegradable properties when exposed to the environment.