Effect of Filler Properties on the Antioxidant Response of Thermoplastic Starch Composites

Abstract

In this chapter we will analyze diff erent starch based nanocomposites employing two types of GRAS fi ller: natural fi ller or bactericidal fi ller. In one case, the fi ller would be acting as a mechanical reinforcement and introducing a tortuous path to the antioxidant diff usion while on the other, the fi ller itself has antioxidant property. In the last case, the infl uence of the fi ller dispersion into the matrix and its interface in the antioxidant effi ciency of the composite will be discussed. Starch based composites with natural antioxidants, as well as with natural (cellulose and clay) and/or bactericidal nanofi llers such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and silver nanoparticles, will be the focus of the discussion.