Thermoplastic starch biocomposites with cellulose and bentonite fillers

Abstract

Biopolymer-based composites (biocomposites) have attracted an increasing level of research interest in a large number of applications. For instance, biodegradable nature of biocomposites makes them an important material for packaging and biomedical applications, with the reason that environmental and biological concerns are consistently being considered for sustainability and human health. Thermoplastic starch (TPS) and natural celluloses, such as from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) are currently being used for the development of edible and biodegradable packaging films. The use of natural bio-based polymers is safer to human health and can reduce plastic wastages that lead to environmental problems. In this communication, a review on the properties of TPS based biocomposites with natural fillers; which are cellulose and bentonite clay was summarized, revealing the great benefit of this class of biocomposite as green and sustainable material.