This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project envisages new biodegradable, water-soluble films produced from blends of pectin and starch for commercial applications. The proposed research focuses on developing films by melt extrusion of plasticized blends of pectin and starch. The extruded . films will be characterized in terms of blend morphology, mechanical properties, and barrier properties. Composition and process variables will be optimized to achieve the required properties and performance.Applications:The proposed research will result in creating environmentally friendly products from renewable agricultural feedstocks. Successful completion of the Phases I and II of the proposed project can lead to value added products from the agricultural waste from the apple, sugar beet, citrus and potato processing industry. A new market for surplus pectin would benefit U.S. farmers and processors.
