In today’s world, where “plastic reduction” and “biodegradability” have become global consensus, the packaging industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Traditional plastics, though offering excellent mechanical properties and cost advantages, pose serious environmental threats due to their non-degradable nature. The quest for sustainable alternatives has become a shared mission for academia and industry. Among emerging materials, Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) has gradually stood out as a promising green solution for packaging.
What is Thermoplastic Starch?
Starch, one of the most abundant polysaccharides in nature, is widely found in crops such as corn, potato, and cassava. By introducing plasticizers (e.g., glycerol, sorbitol), and under specific heat and pressure, natural starch granules undergo a plastic transformation to form TPS. The material exhibits processing characteristics similar to conventional plastics and can be shaped through injection molding, extrusion, or film blowing to produce films, containers, and cushioning materials.
Key Advantages
Firstly, TPS demonstrates excellent biodegradability. In soil or composting environments, it can be readily decomposed by microorganisms into carbon dioxide and water, thus avoiding “white pollution.” Secondly, TPS benefits from a broad feedstock base with abundant agricultural resources, making industrial scaling feasible. Additionally, TPS offers cost competitiveness, particularly when raw material supply is stable, enabling it to replace certain categories of plastics.
Challenges and Solutions
TPS is not without shortcomings. Its primary weaknesses lie in poor mechanical strength and water resistance, which restrict its wider applications. To address this, researchers have explored strategies such as blending with biodegradable polymers like PLA and PBAT, or reinforcing with nanocellulose, to improve durability and barrier properties. In recent years, the integration of nanotechnology and chemical modifications has further accelerated TPS commercialization.
Applications and Outlook
Currently, TPS has seen pilot use in disposable tableware, food packaging films, and agricultural mulch films. For instance, several food companies have introduced snack packages based on TPS, achieving both preservation and sustainability. With supportive policies and shifting consumer awareness, TPS is expected to expand its market presence significantly in the coming decade.
It is important to note that TPS is not intended to “fully replace plastics,” but rather to act as a complementary material in the broader matrix of biodegradable polymers, collectively advancing sustainable packaging solutions.
