HYBRID CLAY-BIOPOLYMER PIGMENTS: IMPACT OF THE INTEGRATION OF CASSAVA STARCH (Manihot esculenta Crantz) ON THE COLOR AND STABILITY OF BELTERRA CLAY

Abstract

The search for ecological alternatives to synthetic pigments has driven the development of natural and sustainable materials with functional optical properties. In this context, this study investigated hybrid pigments obtained from the combination of Belterra Clay (ABT), rich in iron oxides, and cassava starch (AMM), a biodegradable biopolymer. The samples were subjected to thermal treatments and evaluated using colorimetric analyses (L*, a*, b*, ΔE), optical images, descriptive and multivariate statistics, and a multi-criteria decision model. The results showed that temperature significantly influences the color of the materials, with 800 °C standing out as the ideal condition, as it promotes a better balance between intensity and color stability. The AMM+ABT blend showed better optical performance than pure ABT, highlighting its potential as a natural hybrid pigment for applications in paints, coatings, and biodegradable materials.