Biodegradable Films Derived from Low Density Polyethylene – Linear Low Density Polyethylene –Thermoplastic Starch (LDPE-LLDPE-TPS) Ternary Blends for Packaging Applications

Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) has always been challenging low density polyethylene (LDPE) for market purposes, due to its superior end-use performance comparedwith LDPE. However, LLDPE has poor film blowing properties which is related to its low elongational viscosity. This can also be overcome by blending it with LDPE [1, 2]. Starch is an inexpensive and renewable material which satisfies the requirement of adequate thermal stability andminimum interference with flow properties. It has been used as a filler to plastics in film production [3]. Griffin was thepioneer in using starch as the filler in PE matrix to increase the biodegradability of its blends [4]. The aim of this study is to investigate morphology andmechanical properties of the LDPE-LLDPE-TPS film blends which will fulfill required mechanical properties for packaging applications