Starch-based Polymer

Name:
Starch-based Polymer
Detailed information:
(1) A reactive polyol derived from a mixture of a starch with dibasic acids, hydrogen-donating compounds, and catalysts dissolved in water; the slurry is subjected to high temperatures and pressures, yielding a low-viscosity polymer in a 50% solids aqueous solution. A molecular rearrangement takes place, and the polymer formed is completely different from starch in structure and properties. It can be further reacted with acids, bases, and cross-linking agents. Suggested uses are in high-wet-strength papers, as binders in paper coatings, as moisture barriers in packaging, and as water-resistant adhesives.(2) Yeast fermentation of starch to form a biodegradable plastic called “pullulan” (a trigluco polysaccharide) has been reported to be commercially feasible.See “Pullulan.”