Development of Lignin Modified Tapioca Starch for Biodegradable Film

The objective of the present investigation is to synthesize starch/Iignin film, a new
starch based polymer and to evaluate its application in the design of controlled release
fertilizer. The properties of the film were compared with different ratio of lignin
content. Starch/Iignin polymer was synthesized by gelatinlzation of starch in the
presence of urea, borax and lignin. Thermal Gravitational Analyzer (TGA), Scanning
Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffusion (XRD), and Universal Testing Machine
(UTM) are used to evaluate the influence of lignin content on the film mechanical and
thermal properties. The film was prepared by using solution casting method composed
of tapioca starch mixed with lignin. Other tests such as biodegradability test and water
absorption test have been performed and it is shown that lignin actually reduced the
water affinity ofthe films. The results prove that the water-uptake of these blends could
be reduced Midthat simultaneously stiffer materials with a less pronounced degradation
rate can be obtained.