BIODEGRADABLE, GRAIN PROTEIN-BASED SOLID ARTICLES AND FORMING METHODS

摘要

A method of forming solid, non-edible biodegradable, grain protein-based articles is provided wherein a grain protein formulation is heated to a maximum temperature of up to about 80 DEG C to create a substantially homogenous and flowable mixture which can be formed into biodegradable articles. The formulation includes from about 20-85 % by weight of grain protein, from about 5-75 % by weight starch, up to about 14 % by weight water, from about 10-40 % by weight plasticizer, and at least about 0.01 % by weight of a reducing agent such as sodium bisulfite for cleaving disulfide bonds present in the grain protein. Optional ingredients such as fillers, fiber, lubricant/mold release agents and colorants can also be used. The formulations can be processed in extrusion or injection molding equipment to create solid articles.