Most polymers are non-biodegradable because they came from petrochemical materials so they cause several environmental problems when they are discarded in dumpsites or landfills in addition to air pollution if they are incinerated or high energy consumption as a result of recycling therefore, Thermoplastic Starch polymer (TPS) is one of biodegradable polymers, used in medicine, packaging, agriculture, fertilizer and chemical storage bags and become one of the most common natural polymers. Its production and characterization are the objective of this project to replace the synthesis polymers.
TPS was prepared from starch with HCl and plasticized by glycerol. In order to improve poor tensile properties of the TPS, dichloromethane (DCM) were added into the starch to remove gluten that cause rehydration of TPS. Samples were analyzed for mechanical and thermal properties. The results showed that the increase in percentage of glycerin cause a decrease in tensile strength and Young’s modulus. Moreover, water absorption of the TPS samples was clearly reduced by removing gluten. In addition, Films with gluten were more crystalline and had higher tensile strength and rigidity, but lower elongation capacity. The modulus of elasticity, maximum stress, and % El at break values of the TPS for the best sample were 56.35, 1.6 MPa and 23.8% respectively for sample of 2.5% glycerin, and 6% of HCl.