Biodegradable polymers. III. Spectral, thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties of cross‐linked furfural–soy protein concentrate

Soy protein concentrate, a potential alternative of petrochemical polymers, has been crosslinked with furfural at 0.5,1, 2.5, 5, and 7.5% (w/w). The materials were then compression‐molded into plastic tensile bars and tested for tensile and yield strength, percentage elongation, and water absorption. The infrared spectra of the crosslinked product have been studied. The degradation pattern of the crosslinked product has been monitored by TGA method. A computerized LOTUS package method developed by us has been used for evaluating the kinetic parameters. The morphology as well as the biodegradability of the crosslinked product has also been investigated.