COMPOUNDING OF THERMOPLASTIC STARCH WITH TWIN-SCREW EXTRUDERS

The compounding of thermoplastic starch can be regarded as a combined process consisting of extrusion cooking and plastic compounding. The quality of the product is determined largely by the degree of mechanical shear, temperature and water content. These parameters can be influenced both by the machine system and the various components of a machine. These include infinitely adjustable throttle systems and continuous condensation and evaporation equipment. On account of the fact that the starch pellets are sometimes soluble in water, the type of pelletizing is also very important. A product quality which has been optimized can be reproduced every day by means of automatic systems. Some examples of on-line quality control systems are shown.