A series of composite films were prepared from glycerol-plasticized starch and zein by intensive mixing and hot press. The structure and physical properties of the starch/zein (SZ) composite films were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), optical microscopy and water contract angle testing. The hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility of SZ films were evaluated by plasma recalcification time, hemolysis assay and cell culture experiment. SEM and optical observation showed that starch and zein domains can be differed in the films and in a two phase separation status. Glycerol affects the surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of the films. The hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility evaluation showed that SZ composites are anticoagulant materials with no hemolysis and low cytotoxicity. The SZ composites maybe have potentials for applications as biomaterials.
Keywords: Starch; biomaterials; hot press; zein.