According to the publication, in terms of strength and water permeability, they are not inferior to their synthetic analogues and are able to solve one of the most pressing environmental problems – polymer pollution.

The new biodegradable film is based on two natural components: potato starch and chitosan.

As is known, when exposed to heat, aqueous starch suspensions turn into a paste; the granules swell and harden, but at the same time maintain their crystalline structure. This makes starch an excellent base for film production.

Chitosan, (a natural polymer derived from chitin), known for its unique antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, is already used in the development of food films for fruit and vegetable packaging.

This aminopolysaccharide is isolated from chitin, which is part of crustacean shells and found in fungi. UEUS researchers conducted a study to obtain the optimal ratio of components of the new ecopellets.

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