Biodegradable protein/starch-based thermoplastic composition
AssigneeNatural Polymer International Corporation
InventorShu Huan Wang
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Abstract
The invention provides a biodegradable protein/starch-based thermoplastic composition. The composition is particularly useful in preparing low ratio expanded foams. Natural cellulosic fibers such as grass fiber, wood fiber, chopped straw, bagasse, etc. function as reinforcement filler. A metallic salt hydrate is added to improve mechanical properties of the protein/starch-based thermoplastic. The composition is processed by conventional methods, such as extrusion and injection molding, into packaging material or articles that are low density, high compressive strength, tensile strength, and good resilience.
Claims57
A biodegradable protein/starch based thermoplastic composition comprising:
- about 10 to 50 wt. % protein;
- about 20 to 50 wt. % starch;
- about 5 to 25 wt. % natural cellulosic fiber;
- about 8 to 20 wt. % water;
- and
- about 0.5 to 5 wt. % metallic salt hydrate_
- wherein the composition has a density of about 0.1 to 0.8 g/cubic centimeters.
A biodegradable, low ratio, expanded foam made of protein/starch based thermoplastic composition with natural cellulosic fiber comprising:
- about 10 to 46 wt. % protein;
- about 20 to 46 wt. % starch;
- about 5 to 25 wt. % natural cellulosic fiber;
- about 8 to 20 wt. % water;
- about 5 to 25 wt. % plasticizer;
- about 0 to 4 wt. % blowing agent;
- about 0.5 to 2 wt. % nucleating agent;
- about 0.5 to 2 wt. % lubricant;
- about 0.5 to 5 wt. % metallic salt hydrate;
- and
- about 0 to 25 wt. % modifier to improve mechanical and processing properties of the protein/starch based thermoplastic composition,
- wherein the composition has a density of about 0.1 to 0.8 g/cubic centimeters.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.