The aim of the present study was the extraction of corncob arabinoxylan (CCAX) by delignification and alkaline extraction, to be used as a single compound in the first step of films elaboration. The obtained CCAX was treated to improve its material properties through purification (washing and/or bleaching) and acetylation processes. Through both washing or bleaching treatment, the tensile stress of CCAX film was improved from 9 to 53 MPa and Young's modulus from 293 to 1400-1600 MPa by salts removal, whereas de elongation at break remained constant (~8%). The acetylation process (DS= 1.90) allowed the highest values of tensile strength, 67 MPa, 13.4% of elongation at break and 2241 MPa of Young's modulus. In addition, the mechanical properties of bleached CCAX became practically independent of surrounding humidity, and the thermal stability was improved. These characteristics make purified CCAX a suitable material to be used as a matrix for film applications.

Isolation, purification, and modification of corncob arabinoxylan for new materials

247th National Meeting (2014)

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