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Starch Used to Improve Plastic FilmsWASHINGTON - Jan 14/05 - SNS -- USDA researchers have developed a technique for changing the water repellency of plastic films using coatings of steam-jet-cooked starch. Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists say the process will improve plastic's retention of water-based dyes and printing inks, such as those used on food labels, as well as to reduce buildup of static charge. Commercial polymers like polyethylene are hydrophobic, or water-repelling, until rendered otherwise (hydrophilic) with chemical reagents. But according to ARS scientists Fred Felker and George Fanta, coating such plastics with soluble starch--prepared by steam-jet cooking--could offer a cheaper, easier and safer alternative. Subscribers can read the full text of the article by Clicking here
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