Preparation and Partial Characterization of Composite Films Containing Soya Protein and Sago Starch

The aim of the present study is to develop a novel biomaterial from natural resources which can be used for various biomedical applications. In this work, composite films containing soya protein (SY) and sago starch (SG) were prepared by solvent casting methodology; these films were cross linked with glutaraldehyde to improve their mechanical properties. The films prepared were characterized for their Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical properties and thermo gravimetric Analysis (TGA). The results obtained showed that with the increase of soya protein in the composite, there was a decrease in the water absorption capacity. The IR and SEM studies have shown the composite nature of the films prepared. The thermal analysis has shown the stability of the composites at higher temperature which is an added advantage to biomaterials. The scanning electron microscope studies have shown a smooth surface of the SG-SY-G film which is a prerequisite for a wound dressing material.