Correlation between interfacial adhesion and functional properties of corn stalk cellulose-reinforced corn starch-based biodegradable straws

To study correlation between interfacial adhesion and properties of corn starch/corn stalk cellulose (CSC) biodegradable straws, the interfacial adhesion and functional properties of the starch-based straws with different cellulose contents were analyzed and compared. The results showed that the starch/CSC straw with 1 % CSC (SC1) had the highest interfacial adhesion between starch and cellulose, resulting in higher mechanical properties and water resistance. Compared to starch/CSC straw with 0 % CSC, water absorption rate of SC1 decreased by 13.0 % (4 degrees C, 1 h) and 18.4 % (25 degrees C, 1 h), respectively. The fracture strength and fracture deformation increased by 47.8 % and 59.6 %, respectively. The strength increased by 3.93 (4 degrees C, 30 min) and 1.53 (25 degrees C, 30 min) times after soaking, respectively. The soil degradation rate of SC1 was 89.5 % on the 20th day and thermal degradation rate was 79.6 % at 600 degrees C. The SC1 with better properties (soil degradability, water resistant and mechanical properties) was as economical as paper straw.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the interfacial adhesion and functional properties of corn starch/corn stalk cellulose (CSC) biodegradable straws. The results showed that the straws with 1% CSC had higher interfacial adhesion, resulting in improved mechanical properties and water resistance. These straws had similar economic viability as paper straws.