This study focuses on the thermoformability of biopolymer films derived from corn starch and filled with montmorillonite-based nanoclay fillers. Biopolymer films with nanoclay concentrations from 0 to 5โwt% were prepared by solution casting and followed by thermoforming. The result shows that nanoclay addition improves the formability (dimensional stability and plugging property) of thermoformed specimen and also depends on the nanocomposite structure and clay concentration. Improved product stability with optimized properties was observed at 2โ3โwt% nanoclay concentration due to exfoliated structure and better nanoclay particle dispersion in the polymeric matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis show maximum of 27โ increased decomposition temperature, 12% increased storage modulus and 4โ increased Tg at 5โwt% nanoclay-filled biopolymer film. Tensile result shows 13% increased strength, two-fold increased modulus and 29% reduced elongation for 3โwt% nanoclay-filled biopolymer series.
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