The results of measurements of susceptibility to biodegradation and the effect of storage in soil on the mechanical properties of thermoplastic starch films obtained from blends of starch, glycerol and emulsifiers. Studies have shown a varied influence of the blend compositions, extrusion conditions and storage on the scope and efficiency of biodegradation of the products.
During the study the impact of extrusion-cooking process parameters on the wheat starch physical properties changes was investigated. The process was characterized by small energy consumption within a range 270-1069 kJkg-1. Extrusion-cooking technique allows creating the degree of gelatinization of processed starch. It is possible to achieve low or high level of gelatinization depending on the process parameters. Expansion index of the extrudates decreased with increase of wheat starch moisture content. It was found that the use of the extrusion process resulted in increase of water absorption and cold water solubility of starch. The highest value of WAI was 690% and WSI was 19%.