Mechanical, Barrier, Physicochemical, and Heat Seal Properties of Starch Films Filled with Nanoparticles

The effects of nanoparticles (nano clay and nano silicon dioxide) on heat sealability, physicochemical, barrier, and mechanical properties of starch films were investigated. Starch films were prepared by casting method with addition of nanoparticles and plasticizers. All film properties were measured under standard conditions. Mechanical properties of all types of films were increased by incorporation of nanoparticles. Mungbean starch films showed 100% increment in tensile strength by incorporation of nanoclay. Moisture content, water solubility, and WVP of all starch films decreased whereas decomposition temperature of the films was increased by incorporation of nanoparticles. All films were heat sealable, but nanoparticles-incorporated films exhibited better heat sealability than did control films. In summary, the type of starch governed the heat sealability but nanoparticles have potential to improve seal strength of starch films as well as other functional properties.