Preparation of Potato Starch Graft Copolymer and its Application in Functional Coatings

Abstract

A new kind of self-cross-linked potato starch graft copolymer (PoSt-g-P) was prepared successfully by emulsifier-free emulsion polymerization, in which methyl methacrylate (MMA), acrylic acid (AA) and butyl acrylate (BA) were used as main monomers, and diacetone acrylamide (DAAM) as functionality monomers. The keto-carbonyl group in the potato starch graft copolymer /DAAM could react with adipic dihydrazide (ADH) at ambient temperature to form cross-linked thin film. The film properties of emulsion were measured, which showed excellent properties in hardness, gloss and water resistance. The humidity-sensitive coatings (PoSt-g-P-C) were prepared by the self-cross-linked PoSt-g-P, pigments and fillers. Adipic dihydrazide was used as a cross linking agent and assistant. Its humidity controlling properties were also measured and shown high activity in increasing humidity and dehumidify.