The synthesis conditions, characterizations and thermal degradation studies of an etherified starch from an unconventional source

Starch isolated from an under-utilized legume plant (pigeon pea) was carboxymethylated. Influences of reaction parameters were investigated on the degree of substitution (DS) and the reaction efficiency (RE). Studies showed that optimal DS of 1.12 could be reached at reaction efficiency of 80.6% in isopropanol–water reaction medium (40 °C, 3 h). Scanning electron microscopy showed that after carboxymethylation, the granular appearance of the native starch was distorted. Wide-angle X-ray diffractometry revealed that crystallinity was reduced significantly after carboxymethylation. The infrared spectra revealed new bands in the carboxymethyl starch at ν = 1600, 1426 and 1324 cm −1 which were attributed to carbonyl functional groups vibration, –CH 2 scissoring and OH bending vibration, respectively. Broad-band 13C NMR of carboxymethyl starch showed an intense peak at δ = 180.3 ppm which was assigned to carbonyl carbon on the carboxymethyl substituent on the AGU (Anhydroglucose Unit). DEPT (Distortionless Enhancement by Polarization Transfer) 135 NMR showed negative signals which correspond to methylene carbons on the AGU. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) suggests loss of crystallinity after carboxymethylation. Thermogravimetry (TG), Derivative Thermogravimetry (DTG) and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) show that thermal stability improved after carboxymethylation. The study provides information on the preparation and characterization of a biomaterial from a new source which could be used alone or in the preparation of other functional polymers for diverse polymer applications.