SEM characterization of starch granules

Maize and potato starch samples were investigated by three scanning electron microscopy techniques (secondary electron imaging, Everhart Thornley secondary electron detection, backscattered electron imaging) at different magnifications. The starch granules were visualized and their shapes, surface morphology and size were revealed. From the SEM images the size distribution of the granules was inferred and compared for the different samples. These investigations will contribute to the characterization of native starches as raw materials for the production of biodegradable plastics. Keywords: potato starch; maize starch; SEM; granulometry