Corn starch is found in nature in various forms. Natural corn starch is a starch derived from cereals that contains little ash and protein. Maize contains around 71% starch, which can be distinguished from the other components by wet milling methods such as steeping, grinding, purification and drying. Depending on the manufacturing conditions, the physio-chemical and functional characteristics of starch can differ significantly.
Applications
Textile sizing :
The sizing process does not cause the maize starch paste to shrink, unlike tapioca starch, which undergoes significant decomposition when cooked. This results in an even sizing of the yarn. When cooked under pressure, corn starch transforms into a homogeneous paste in an hour or less. The uniformity of viscosity from batch to batch ensures even collection and penetration into the interstices of the yarn, ensuring satisfactory weaving results.
Since the creation of foam is often linked to a high pH, the use of corn starch does not require the application of anti-foaming agents. In fact, the pH of corn starch paste remains constantly in a neutral zone. In addition to these benefits, the starch is easily removed during the usual desizing process.
Textile finishing :
Starch is used in the textile finishing process to reduce the stiffness, feel or workability of the material, to improve its appearance by filling gaps in the weave and to increase its mass. Due to the temporary nature of starch, its application is usually restricted to relatively affordable fabrics or materials such as shadecloth or bindingcloth that are not cleaned.
Thermosetting or thermoplastic resins are also used in combination with starch to create a durable finish.
Paper sizing :
The paper industry is the most important non-food industrial application for starch. It is an adhesive used in the paper production process.
It is used in low LF Kraft paper as a sizing agent to optimise the surface of the document.
It is used in low LF Kraft paper as a sizing agent to optimise the surface of the document.
Other uses:
Malting transforms starch into sugars, which are then fermented to generate ethanol. It can then be used to produce biofuels, beer and whisky.
Other applications include corrugated board adhesives. This industry boasts the second largest application of non-nutritive materials in the world. A precise method is used to convert starch into a glue that is deposited at the ends of the flutes. The fluting paper is then pressed onto the cover paper, which is then dried at a high temperature. The uncooked starch in the glue is gelatinised by the high temperature, making it a fast and effective adhesive for the manufacture of corrugated board.
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