Biodegradable polymers: IV. Spectral, thermal, and mechanical properties of cross‐linked soy protein concentrate

Soy protein concentrate, a potential alternative to petrochemical polymers, was cross‐linked with formaldehyde at 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 % (w/w). The materials were then compression‐moulded into plastic tensile bars and tested for tensile and yield strength, percentage elongation and water absorption. The infrared spectra of the cross‐linked product were studied. The degradation pattern of the cross‐linked product was monitored by thermogravimetric analysis. A computerised LOTUS package method that we developed was used for evaluating the kinetic parameters. The biodegradability of the cross‐linked product was also investigated.