THESIS - ROC CH ... - FINAL - resubmission.pdf - University of Guelph
THESIS - ROC CH ... - FINAL - resubmission.pdf - University of Guelph
THESIS - ROC CH ... - FINAL - resubmission.pdf - University of Guelph
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The viability <strong>of</strong> introducing a completely green alternative to petroleum based plastics<br />
can only be achievable with a biodegradable material with comparable performance and cost to<br />
current market <strong>of</strong>ferings. A feasible solution was explored in this study by leveraging<br />
sustainable efforts through the complete utilization <strong>of</strong> the soy plant in conjunction with<br />
increasing commercial potential through the use <strong>of</strong> extrusion. However, the current work<br />
accomplished has not yet been optimized and can greatly benefit from future studies.<br />
Recommended investigations for further research are outlined as follows:<br />
Part I: Extrusion <strong>of</strong> SPI Films<br />
� Optimization <strong>of</strong> extrusion parameters: The extrusion <strong>of</strong> SPI films was only successfully<br />
accomplished in a small-scale single screw extruder. An optimization study was not<br />
performed to isolate critical extrusion parameters so that they may be scaled accordingly to<br />
larger operations commonplace to an industrial setting. As such, further study into precise<br />
extrusion parameters should be carried out.<br />
� Increase process window: Due to the sensitivity <strong>of</strong> proteins, future studies could benefit<br />
from exploring options to enlarge the processing window so that steady state conditions can<br />
be more robust against disturbances. Investigations into additives may be able to expand<br />
the processing window so that homogenous films may be more easily formed.<br />
� Extruder modifications for protein extrusion: Many extruders are optimized for the heating<br />
process <strong>of</strong> synthetic polymers. Due to the small processing window, apparatus alterations<br />
may be needed to better control the extrusion <strong>of</strong> protein. More specifically, the cooling <strong>of</strong><br />
the melt is typically a post extrusion process where the surface <strong>of</strong> the films is uncontrolled.<br />
Since the protein was most sensitive to the temperature at the die, modifications may focus<br />
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