Morphological insights into starch-sodium hydrogen sulfate complex membranes via macro and micro-scale analysis
|
Full Text |
Pdf
|
|
Author |
Mohd Faiz Hassan and Muhammad Idlan Johar
|
|
e-ISSN |
1819-6608 |
|
On Pages
|
504-513
|
|
Volume No. |
21
|
|
Issue No. |
8
|
|
Issue Date |
June 20, 2026
|
|
DOI |
https://doi.org/10.59018/042658
|
|
Keywords |
solid biopolymer electrolyte, starch, sodium hydrogen sulphate, morphology.
|
Abstract
This research investigates the transformation of starch-based membranes when combined with sodium salts, focusing on their physical and structural changes. Membranes were fabricated using a solution casting method, incorporating starch, sodium hydrogen sulfate, distilled water, and glycerin. The pristine membrane exhibited a clear and even surface, reflecting a homogeneous polymer network. However, introducing sodium hydrogen sulfate at different levels led to noticeable alterations in the membrane's appearance, such as increased cloudiness and structural irregularities. Advanced imaging techniques, including high-resolution photography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), were employed to analyze the material. These methods revealed the development of both large-scale and fine-scale structures, as well as the even dispersion of sodium ions throughout the polymer network. The interaction between the salt ions and the polymer chains disrupted the balance between crystalline and amorphous regions, promoting a shift toward greater amorphous character. This change affected the membrane's transparency and light-diffusing capabilities. The results offer valuable insights into how varying salt concentrations can alter the physical and structural attributes of starch-based membranes, potentially expanding their utility in various material science applications.
Back