Oxidative Degradation of Starch by Free Radical Systems

Part I. Modification of Statch Granules

Abstract

A new method for preparation of chemically modified starch by means of free radical systems was developed. The method is characterized is that, aqueous starch suspension is treated with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of free radical-producing synergists such as ascorbic acid, hydrazine, or hydroxylamine to give products of remarkably reduced viscosity which can be regulated arbitrarily by use of appropriate levels of the reagents.
Chemical and physical changes in the modified starch together with the reaction mechanism were also studied.