FT-IR investigation of starch based composite reinforced with Miscanthus fibers

The properties and structure of starch based materials can be improved by reinforcement with natural fibers due to the chemical similarity of vegetal fiber and starch. In this study, natural fiber reinforced starch based composites have been developed by extrusion procedure. The reinforcement materials used are Miscanthus fibers in minced form. A set of 4 formulas of composite material with various fiber ratios (up to 20%) were prepared and investigated. FT-IR spectroscopy supported the molecular interactions due to the reinforcement with Miscanthus fiber of starch-based composite.