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THESIS - ROC CH ... - FINAL - resubmission.pdf - University of Guelph

THESIS - ROC CH ... - FINAL - resubmission.pdf - University of Guelph

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on the die to control cooling and depressurization so that film surface disruptions may be<br />

minimized.<br />

� Decrease water sensitivity: The main drawback for extruded SPI films is the water<br />

sensitivity which negatively affects both mechanical and barrier properties. Incorporation <strong>of</strong><br />

additives to reduce water sensitivity while maintaining the integrity for a sustainable solution<br />

should be explored. Proteins with increased hydrophobic groups such as zein, wheat<br />

gluten, etc. may decrease water sensitivity. Additional coatings could chemically bind to the<br />

surface <strong>of</strong> films to improve barrier properties.<br />

Part II: Cellulose Extraction from Soy Pods and Stems<br />

� Optimize the chemi-mechanical process: Each step in the applied chemi-mechanical<br />

process may be further optimized to achieve a higher degree <strong>of</strong> fiber quality. With smaller<br />

diameters and higher crystallinity, fiber properties should theoretically greatly improve.<br />

� Explore other fiber extraction methods: The pursuit <strong>of</strong> cellulose nan<strong>of</strong>ibers is still in its early<br />

phase where many research groups have shown multiple combinations <strong>of</strong> techniques which<br />

can obtain nan<strong>of</strong>ibers from a variety <strong>of</strong> sources. The use <strong>of</strong> enzymes has shown to be less<br />

harsh on the cellulose structure while effectively solubilizing other amorphous plant<br />

compounds. Future studies could employ other techniques besides the described chemi-<br />

mechanical process which may yield better results.<br />

Part III: Development <strong>of</strong> Soy-Fiber Composite Films<br />

� Explore methodological modifications: By solution casting SPI/fiber prior to extrusion, the<br />

addition <strong>of</strong> cellulose fibers may be increased without the complication <strong>of</strong> aggregate<br />

formation. With the aid <strong>of</strong> solution casting, fibers can be essentially coated with protein<br />

110

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