Solid foam production from starch and fiber maguey (Agave spp) as an alternative to polystyrene

Abstract

Solid foams were produced from corn starch and fiber of maguey (Agave spp), which were collected at the altiplano area in Hidalgo, Mexico. The proximal chemical analysis of Agave fiber was as follows: fiber (50.7%), fat (0.06%), ash (21.5%) and moisture (2.3%). The solid foams were made by varying the amounts of starch and fiber. Blends were dried using a thermoforming press, obtaining brittle plates between 3 and 5 mm thick. Plates containing fiber (T2) had lower water absorption, being recommended as a container for food with low water activity. However, the use of either a plasticizer or modified starch to improve the mechanical characteristics needs to be tested.