A comprehensive overview of recent developments in starch-based materials, ideal for students and researchers working in bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites.

This brief explores recent progress in the area of polysaccharides and their composites and nanocomposites. It is a complete resource for the evolving field of polysaccharide based biomaterials and their applications in different fields. The volume focuses on their composition, properties, characterization, chemistry and applications and also highlights recent developments in polysaccharide based composites and nanocomposites spurred by advances in polymer technology and biotechnology. Divided into different sections featuring alginates, carrageenans, cellulose, starch, chitin, chitosan, gums, etc, each chapter presents chemical, physical, and biological attributes, and reviews the recent research performed such as drug carriers, selective water absorption materials from oil-water emulsions, purification of water, biomedical applications, etc. The authors hope that this brief will help to inspire scientists towards novel sources for chemicals, materials, and energy in the years to come.

In recent years, much attention has been focused on biodegradable polymers from renewable resources. Due to its availability and low cost, starch is a promising candidate among biopolymers for use in biodegradable packaging materials and for other purposes. Starch-Based Polymeric Materials and Nanocomposites: Chemistry, Processing, and Applications

Biodegradable Polymer Blends and Composites from Renewable Resources provides a comprehensive, current overview of biopolymeric blends and composites and their applications in various industries. The book is organized according to the type of blend or composite. For each topic, the relationship between the structure of the blends/composites and their respective properties is explored, with particular focus on interface, compatibility, mechanical, and thermal properties. Real-life applications and potential markets are discussed. This is a premier reference for graduate students and researchers in polymer science, chemical and bio engineering, and materials science.

Biodegradable Polymers, Blends and Composites provides a comprehensive review on recent developments in this very important research field. The book's chapters cover the various types of biodegradable polymers currently available and their composites, with discussions on preparation, properties and applications. Sections cover natural rubber-based polymer blends, soy-protein, cellulose, chitin, starch-based, PLA, PHBV, PCL, PVA, PBAT-based blends, Poly (ethylene succinate), PHB and Poly (propylene carbonates). The book will be a valuable reference resource for academic and industrial researchers, technologists and engineers working on recent developments in the area of biodegradable polymers, their blends and composites. - Discusses the various types of biodegradable polymers, blends and composites - Covers natural rubber, cellulose, chitin, starch, PLA, PCL and PBAT - Features modern processing technologies, properties, applications and biodegradability

This unique book will enable engineers and natural-based polymer scientists to achieve multi-functionality in products using soy protein and various nano- and micro-sized biobased materials and reinforcements. Many of the recent research accomplishments in the area of soy-based blends, composites and bionanocomposites are presented in this book. In addition to introducing soy protein and its structure and relationship properties, the book covers many other relevant topics such as the state-of-the-art, new challenges, advances and opportunities in the field such as: biomedical applications of soy protein; electrospinning of soy protein nanofibers, their synthesis and applications; soy protein-based materials rheology; soy proteins as a potential source of active peptides of nutraceutical significance; soy protein isolate-based films; and use of soy protein-based carriers for encapsu??lating bioactive ingredients.

Starch biopolymer reinforced with nanocellulose has the potential to replace conventional petroleum-based packaging. The book covers new materials for food packaging applications and the opportunities and challenges of bionanocomposites. It discusses environmental aspects of biobased packaging, socio-economic impact, life cycle cost analysis, market and consumers perceptions and preferences.  Covers development and characterization of various starch biopolymer reinforced with nanocellulose.  Includes chapters from leading industrial and academic experts who present cutting-edge research.  Includes case studies on biobased packaging.

Starch-Based Materials in Food Packaging: Processing, Characterization and Applications comprises an experimental approach related to the processing and characterization of biopolymers derived from different starches. The book includes fundamental knowledge and practical applications, and it also covers valuable experimental case studies. The book not only provides a comprehensive overview concerning biodegradable polymers, but also supplies the new trends in their applications in food packaging. The book is focused toward an ecological proposal to partially replace synthetics polymers arising from non-renewable sources for specific applications. This tender implies the protection of natural resources. Thus, the use of starch as feedstock to develop biodegradable materials is a good and promissory alternative. With the contributions and collaboration of experts in the development and study of starch based materials, this book demonstrates the versatility of this polysaccharide and its potential use. - Brings the latest advances in the development of biomaterials from different starches, applying several technologies at laboratory and semi-industrial scales - Examines the effect of formulations and processing conditions on structural and final properties of starch-based materials (blends and composites) - Discusses the potential applications of starch materials in different fields, especially in food packaging - Includes chapters on active and intelligent food packages