Compatible Blends of Thermoplastic Starch and Low Density Polyethylene Compatibilized with Citric Acid

Blends of citric acid-modified thermoplastic starch (TPS) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) were prepared by reactive extrusion (REX) and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fragile fracture surfaces, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), water absorption in 53% relative humidity environment and by X-ray diffraction. The modified TPS was prepared by the reactive extrusion of a mixture of corn starch, citric acid and glycerol (30%). TPS-LDPE blends were then prepared by the processing of TPS and PEBD both in pellets in a single screw extruder. It was observed an important compatibilization effect, attributed to the reduction of TPS melt viscosity and consequently the reduction of the interfacial tension between TPS and PEBD phases. The FTIR spectra showed shifting of starch bands confirming the compatibilization effect of citric acid. Important change on blend morphology as function of the TPS modification were observed, in particular for the blends prepared with the addition of 1,0-1,5% AC which showed a more homogeneous and finer dispersed phase.