Biodegradable Composites of Starch and Poly(Hydroxybutyrate-Co-Valerate) Copolymers

摘要: The use of starch in biodegradable plastics applications has received considerable attention recent years. Its low cost makes it an attractive filler for high-cost polymers which compete with commodity such as polyethylene and polystyrene disposable, one-use cutlery, cups, food trays. US Department Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service conducted research utilization many Recently, there been interest utilizing composites poly(hydroxybutyrate-valerate) copolymers (PHBV). PHBV are produced via fermentation agricultural feedstocks by microorganisms Alcaligenes eutrophus. These biodegradable, thermoplastic polyesters have marketed under the trade name Biopol Zeneca Bioproducts. Under a Cooperative Development Agreement (CRADA) between USDA’s Service, other environmentally benign materials developed wide range properties. This paper discusses effects composition variables on mechanical properties biodegradation these materials.