Biodegradable Films Produced from Ozone-Modified Potato Starch

Ozone technology is an emerging and environmentally friendly technology, which is able to change both starch molecules size and charge. Consequently, new properties are achieved. In this study, biodegradable films were produced from starch modified by ozone technology. Potato starch was ozonated in water suspension using different conditions. The films were produced by casting technique using potato starch, glycerol as the plasticizer, and water as the solvent. The films were characterized in term of morphology, crystallinity, color, and their mechanical, barrier, and functional properties. The ozonation changed the structure and properties of the polymeric matrix, resulting in films with a more homogeneous morphology and enhanced mechanical properties. The 30 min ozonated potato starch formed films with higher Young’s Modulus (64 MPa) and decreased elongation at break (19%), in comparison to the non-modified potato starch (45 MPa and 81%). Moreover, an increase in the contact angle was observed from 31.5° to 60.7°, which was directly related to the ozonation time. This indicates a more hydrophobic surface, which is a desired characteristic. The water vapor permeability (26 g mm/day m 2 kPa) was not affected by the ozone processing. Finally, the film transparency was highly improved when ozone was applied, highlighting an interesting property from a commercial perspective. In conclusion, starch modification through ozonation demonstrated to be a good alternative for packaging production.