Vapor Barrier Properties of Cold Plasma Treated Corn Starch Films

The development and efficient production of effective bioplastics is a hot topic, required to face up the issue difficult disposal plastics derived from oil. Among different natural sources bioplastics, starch one most promising. However, for applications, proper mastering surface properties bioplastic necessary. We report about modification extruded corn films by means cold plasma based on helium (He) hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO). differently treated surfaces were functionally characterized in wettability water absorption. nanoscale morphology was assessed scanning electron microscopy atomic force microscopy. obtained images analyzed advanced figures describing both texture amplitude parameters, including fractal behavior. combined treatment (He/HMDSO) resulted more homogeneous with smaller, better-distributed grains compared case wherein He not used. Despite morphologies observed, coated HMDSO alone He/HMDSO presented similar hydrophobic character, contact angles higher than 110°. Plasma significant reduction absorbed content without vapor permeability. nanotexture did present statistically differences, terms spatial complexities, dominant frequencies, void distribution, percolation.