Synthesis, characterization, and utilization of potato starch nanoparticles as a filler in nanocomposite films.

The nanoparticles for the preparation of nanocomposite starch films were synthesized from potato starch using the acid hydrolysis method. The films were prepared by incorporating starch nanoparticles into the film formulation at 0.5, 1, 2, 5, and 10% level of total starch. The control starch film was prepared without the incorporation of starch nanoparticles (SNPs) in film formulation. The starch and SNPs were analyzed for physicochemical and morphological properties. The absorption capacity of SNPs for water and oil was significantly (p < 0.05) lower as compared to native starch. Whereas, the swelling power and solubility of SNPs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the swelling power and solubility of starch, respectively. The starch granules were oval and spherical with regular surfaces whereas the SNPs had irregular cracked exteriors spaces. The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) from nanocomposite starch films was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the control starch film. The burst strength of films was increased significantly (p < 0.05) with an increased level of SNPs incorporation in film formulation. The incorporation of SNPs increased film thickness and biodegradability. Thus, the present study revealed that the incorporation of SNPs in film formulation resulted in improved film properties.