Exploration of cassava clones for the development of biocomposite films

Due to the growing interest in developing bioplastic films from renewable sources, the performance of biocomposite films produced of native starch from cassava clones reinforced with cassava bagasse was explored. The biocomposites were prepared from the starch of cassava clones MMEXV5, MMEXV40, and MMEXCH23, reinforced with bagasse at 1%, 5%, and 15%. Their structural, mechanical, and thermal properties were subsequently assessed. When analyzing the starch, differences in the intensities of the Raman spectra exhibit a possible variation in the amylose-amylopectin ratio. In the biocomposites, the bagasse was efficiently incorporated into polymeric matrixes and their thermogravimetric analysis revealed the compatibility of the matrix-reinforcement. The starch films from the MMEXV40 clone showed better tension (2.53 MPa) and elastic modulus (60.49 MPa). The assessed mechanical properties were also affected by bagasse concentration. Because of the above, the MMEXV40 cassava clone showed potential to develop polymeric materials, given its tuberous roots high yield, starch extraction, and good performance in its mechanical properties. At the same time, the starch source (clone) and the bagasse concentration interfere with the final properties of the biocomposites.