Physiochemical Properties Of Starch

Starch is a stored form of carbohydrates found in almost all the plants that carry out photosynthesis. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants manufacture glucose and this glucose is then assembled in the plants as semi-crystalline starch granules. In its pure natural form, starch is a white and tasteless substance that basically contains two molecules, amylose and amylopectin. This highly reactive carbohydrate product can be easily modified chemically, physically or enzymatically for a variety of applications and requirements. Here’s a look at some of the significant physiochemical properties of Starch.

• Thickening Property: The molecules of starch, including amylose and amylopectin, combine with the molecules of water at elevated temperatures. Due to this chemical reaction, the starch molecules increase in size, absorb much of the water and form a paste. This useful property has made it a popular thickening agent in various confectionary products like pudding, cookies, gravies, sauces, pie fillings, etc.
• Dispersion: Another valuable characteristic of starch is its ability to disperse or suspend other ingredients of a mixture. In many food and agro industries, starch paste is used to suspend or emulsify proteins and fats. Similarly, it is also used in paper coatings and adhesives to suspend various clay particles.
• Gel Formation: If the starch paste is allowed to cool, it turns into a semi-solid gel. This gel formation property is extremely useful in some applications as it provides the desired physical characteristics of Starch-based puddings, salad dressings and certain types of adhesives.
• Adhesiveness: Another significant feature of Starch is its excellent ability to produce strong and effective adhesive films when it is dried up. This attribute is exploited in a number of applications such as paper coating, textile sizing, corrugated board manufacturing, etc.

Applications Of Starch

• Metal Industry: For manufacturing foundry core binder, sand casting binder, etc.
• Cosmetic And Pharmaceutical Industry: In face creams, dusting powder, soap fillers, etc.
• Food Processing Industry: In processing of cereals and snacks, frozen foods, bakery and confectionery products, batters and breads, soups and sauces, etc.
• Paper Industry: For surface resizing, paper coating, disposable diapers, filler retention, etc.
• Construction Industry: In manufacturing gypsum board binder, concrete block binder, plywood adhesive, etc.

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