Effect of carboxymethyl cellulose concentration on mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of corn starch films

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of different concentrations of CMC (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 %) on the mechanical and water vapor barrier properties in corn starch films produced by casting. The addition of CMC 40 % was sufficient to significantly increase its mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break and elastic modulus), and water vapor barrier of the starch films, thus improving its functionality as a packaging material for food. CMC incorporation led to a small reduction in the thermal stability of the films. CMC in low content dispersed well in the starch matrix, ensuring interaction between its constituents that formed a network structure, thus improving mechanical properties and making diffusion of water difficult.