Micro Lessons

Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) is a biodegradable polymer made by processing natural starch (typically from sources like corn, potato, or cassava) with plasticizers such as water, glycerol, or sorbitol. Under heat and shear, starch granules gelatinize and melt, forming a thermoplastic material that can be molded and processed using conventional plastic manufacturing techniques like extrusion and injection molding. TPS is widely used in sustainable packaging, agricultural films, and disposable products due to its renewable origin, biodegradability, and potential to replace petroleum-based plastics. However, its sensitivity to moisture and mechanical properties often require blending with other polymers for improved performance.