This paper deals with the behavior of PVC compounds with addition of starch for applications, especially in the footwear industry. The mechanical properties of the compounds in the proportions of 5, 7.5 and 10% were studied using tensile tests. Also investigated were the flow rates, in addition to changes in properties when the material was subjected to artificial aging in an oven and exposed to natural weather and buried in the soil. The feasibility of application in the industry was evaluated with tests of endurance, strength and field tests in injection uppers and straps of sandals. The results showed that the addition of starch to PVC causes loss of mechanical properties, owing to the lower mechanical strength of starch compared to PVC. After aging in an oven, starch is degraded, thus causing the compound more rigid and less fluid. When exposed to weather and soil, PVC can be degraded with loss of HCl, which leads to soil acidification. In conclusion, for applications in footwear and sandals, the mechanical strength does not meet the market requirements. Despite the low cost, the poor mechanical behavior makes them unviable for mass scale production.
PVC; starch; mechanical properties; degradation
