Starch is one of the most widely available natural biomaterials and is commonly used in biodegradable packaging. This book provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in starch-based materials.

The book focuses on the types of starch available from different sources, in particular the various aspects of preparation, structure, processing, morphology, properties and applications of starch materials and their polymer blends, composites and nanocomposites. It is ideal for students and researchers in chemistry, polymer science, materials science, biotechnology and life sciences working in bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites, well as those interested in its applications.

Starch: State of Art, New Challenges and Opportunities; Starch: Introduction and Structure-Property Relationships; Preparation and Characterization of Starch Nanocrystals; Natural Fibre-reinforced Thermoplastic Starch Composites; Applications of Starch Nanocrystal-based Blends, Composites and Nanocomposites; Chemical Modification of Thermoplastic Starch; Outstanding Features of Starch-Based Hydrogel Nanocomposites; Starch-based Blends; Fracture and Failure of Starch-based Composites; Application of Starch Nanocomposites in the Food Industry; Effects of Additives on the Properties of Starch.