Structure and phase behaviour of microcrystalline cellulose in mixture with condensed systems of potato starch

It has been suggested that microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) can be used in biodegradable films to improve techno-functionality by providing bulk and enhancing mechanical strength. This study aimed to investigate the effect of MCC addition on the structural properties of potato starch films. Samples were prepared by hot pressing at 120 °C for 7 min to produce systems that covered a broad range of moisture content and relative humidity. Complimentary experimental techniques, including thermomechanical analysis, FTIR, wide-angle X-ray diffraction and SEM, were employed to examine the micro- and macromolecular characteristics in these mixtures. Both moisture content and the presence of MCC have a plasticising effect on the composites yielding a reduction in its glass transition temperature. It appears that there is no specific and nontrivial interaction between potato starch and MCC, an outcome which indicates that the cellulose fibres act as inert filler in the polymeric composite.