Wood dust as an additive for starch-based biocomposite films

The study aimed to investigate the effect of raw waste pine wood dust ( Pinus sylvestris ) from furniture production on polysaccharide biopolymer film properties. The obtained biocomposite films produced by the casting method were prepared with 20% glycerol and 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% of added wood dust in relation to the dry starch matter, respectively. Wood dust composition and particle size distribution analysis were performed. In order to evaluate the material surface properties, tests were carried out using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and a contact angle goniometer. The uniaxial tensile test examined the mechanical properties, and the tensile strength and Young’s modulus value were determined. In addition, the barrier properties, water solubility index and colour were also investigated. The research showed that wood dust affects the functional parameters of the obtained biocomposites. Wood dust content increase causes Young’s modulus value to rise with a progressive decrease in the max strain. The filler did not change the films’ wetting properties, and each had a hydrophilic surface regardless of the additive amount. The bio-sourced composites obtained are non-toxic and environmentally neutral materials suitable to apply in the packaging industry as well as the agriculture sector.