Integrated production by extrusion of biodegradable materials from cassava (Manihot esculenta)

• Grant number: 22/00448-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Effective date (Start): June 01, 2022
• Effective date (End): September 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Carmen Cecilia Tadini
• Grantee: Gerald Alberto Marenco Orozco
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/07914-8 - FoRC - Food Research Center, AP.CEPID

Abstract

In recent years, pollution by plastics in nature has led to research into biodegradable materials that can act as a substitute for packaging fossil sources made of botanical sources such as cassava starch. However, contamination by residues from cassava processing (roots and peel) requires the complete integration of these tubers as raw material. This project aims to use cassava flour and starch, as well as residues of this tuber as reinforcing fiber, for its proper characterization and subsequent manufacture of biodegradable materials by extrusion, which is an easy-to-handle method and with the potential for large-scale production. The project also proposes the characterization of the obtained materials concerning physical and superficial properties (thickness, water content, solubility, wettability, mechanical resistance and color) barrier properties (against oxygen and water), morphology, biodegradability and chemical changes. The tests will be conducted in duplicate, at least. The materials will be maintained under controlled temperature and relative humidity for 7 days before characterization. (AU)