Abstract
The susceptibility of starch-based biomaterials to enzymatic degradation by a-amylase and peroxidase enzymes was investigated. A polymeric blend of corn starch with polyethylene, designated by SLDPE, was studied. The degradation was evidenced by gravimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Analysis performed showed that starch blend is susceptible to enzymatic degradation, significantly in the presence of ionic liquid, as evidenced by increased weight loss and reducing sugars in solution. SEM analysis evidenced the presence of fractures and pores at the materials surface as a result of starch degradation by a-amylase. FTIR spectra confirmed a decrease on the band corresponding to glycosidic linkage (-C-O-C-) of starch. Keywords: corn starch, LDPE/starch blends, degradability, enzymes, ionic liquid