(306a) Properties and Applications of Biofoam Composite Materials

Agricultural materials are of interest as a replacement for plastics since they are typically inexpensive, widely available, renewable, and compostable. Biofoam is of particular interest as a potential replacement for plastic foam products such as those made of polystyrene. Biofoam with uniquely different properties can be made using a variety of processes including solvent exchange, extrusion, thermoforming, and mixing techniques among others. Biofoam composite materials that will be discussed include microcellular starch foam, thermoformed starch/fiber composites, and fiber-based semi-rigid foam panels with insulative and cushioning properties.