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Production of biodegradable plastic through blending thermoplastic sago starch with compatibilized linear low density polyethylene
Thesis Abstract:
This research explored the possibility of sago starch for blending with synthetic plastic polymer. In order to improve the physico-mechanical properties and the compatibility of the blend system, sago starch was modified into thermoplastic sago starch, while linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was compatibilized by addition of maleic anhydride. Thermoplastic sago starch was produced through compounding of starch with 20 percent glycerol and 25 percent water. This compound showed the best physico-mechanical properties when blended with 80 percent compatibilized
LLDPE. The results indicated that 40 percent of thermoplastic sago starch in the blends was the best composition in terms of mechanical properties and its biodegradability. Blending of thermoplastic sago starch up to 40 percent improved the biodegradability and maintained the tensile strength up to 110 kgf/cm<sup>2</sup>. The test for biodegradability showed high coverage of mold growth (Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus niger) on the surface plastic (85%, 95%) and high degree of biodegradation by α-amylase (24%,
70%).