Hydroxypropyl starch‐based films reinforced by incorporation of alkalized microcrystalline cellulose

Environment friendly and biodegradable composite films comprised of alkalized microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and hydroxypropyl starch (HPS) have been developed by a solution casting method. The particle sizes and crystal structure of alkalized MCC have been investigated by Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer and X‐ray diffraction. The surface morphology of MCC/HPS films have been observed by scanning electron microscopy. Meanwhile, the enhanced thermal stability has been confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis and Differential scanning calorimetry. Incorporating alkalized MCC into HPS, composite films show raised glass transition temperature (increased by 13.31%), strengthened mechanical properties (increased by 13.72%), and reduced water vapor permeation (reduced by 75.27%). As‐prepared alkalized MCC/HPS composite films could not only be employed as an most promising candidate for developing green food packaging materials, but also endow themselves with substitute for petroleum plastic products while concomitantly promoting the development of sustainable materials. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E856–E864, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers