The chemical formula of starch is (C6H10O5)n.

The basic structural unit is α-D-glucopyranose. Many chemical properties of starch are similar to glucose. However, because it is a polymer of glucose and has its own unique properties, starch chemistry is used in production. By changing the properties of starch molecules, two important categories of starch deep-processing products can be obtained.

Applications

Starch has a wide range of applications, among which modified starch is the focus. Modified starch refers to starch or starch derivatives that use physical, chemical or enzymatic means to change the molecular structure and physical and chemical properties of original starch to produce new properties and uses. There are various types, which are divided into the following categories according to the processing method.

1. Physical modification: pregelatinized (α-transformed) starch, gamma ray, ultra-high frequency radiation treated starch, mechanical grinding treated starch, moist heat treated starch, etc.

2. Chemical modification: Modified starch obtained by treatment with various chemical reagents. There are two major categories: one is to reduce the molecular weight of starch, such as acid-lysis starch, oxidized starch, baking dextrin, etc.; the other is to increase the molecular weight of starch, such as cross-linked starch, esterified starch, etherified starch, grafted starch, etc. Starch, etc.