Properties of hydric and biodegradability of cassava starch-based bioplastics reinforced with thermally modified kaolin

In this study, hydric and biodegradability properties of cassava starch-based bioplastics reinforced with crude kaolin or treated kaolinitic clay at 700 °C called metakaolin were investigated using water adsorption microbiological tests. Non-reinforced (BP) those containing 5 wt.% (BPKB) (BPMKB) manufactured the casting/evaporation method. Results obtained showed a decrease in solubility diffusion permeability clay-reinforced respect to ones without reinforcement. This improvement has been attributed reduction free volumes existing between starch macromolecules due their interactions platelets. These might favor more homogeneous compact microstructure. The was significantly improved bacterial proliferation. thermal treatment further bioplastics.