Self-Healing Polymer Composites from Waxy Maize Starch: Mechanisms and Sustainable Applications
Arum Chinaecherem Tochukwu
*
Department of Material Chemistry, Material Development Institute, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, P.O. Box 1022, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
Simon Bbumba *
Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda and Department of Science, Faculty of Science and Computing, Ndejje University, P.O. Box 7088, Kampala, Uganda.
Okafor Chukwuebuka Ubaka
Department of Physics, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Are Road, Oye-Ekiti, PMB 373, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Saifullahi Mukhtar
Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Agriculture Zuru, P.M.B 28, Kebbi, Nigeria.
Chinedum Ogechukwu Emelda
Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Akoda Rd, Ede, P.O. Box 232101, Osun State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Herein, we reviewed a highly branched, amylopectin-rich biopolymer, waxy maize starch (WMS), which promises to be a good matrix for durable self-healing polymer composites.
Brittle petroleum-based polymers and native starch films lack barrier properties and self-healing. Sustainable alternatives are needed. In its high amylopectin concentration and unusual branching structure, waxy maize starch (WMS) may be a renewable resource for self-healing polymer composites. This article discusses WMS-based self-healing composite material design, healing processes, and sustainable applications. Advanced technologies include enzymatic branching, dynamic borate ester bonding, nanocrystal reinforcement, and microcapsule-assisted healing have enhanced mechanical strength, healing efficiency, and functional performance. Various reviews reveal that WMS composites can recover over 58% of their mechanical integrity after damage, indicating its practicality. These findings demonstrate WMS as a scalable, renewable platform for next-generation green materials and suggest self-healing biopolymer research. This review examines waxy maize starch-based polymer composite design, self-healing, and sustainable applications.
Keywords: polymer composites, self-healing, mechanism, starch