The chemical degradation of starch: old reactions and new frontiers.

The chemistry of starch degradation is reviewed from the standpoint of the general utility of the reactions and the proposed mechanisms. The limitations and potential of the various chemical transformations are discussed. The reactions discussed include hydrolysis, oxidations, base-catalyzed degradations, halogenations and radiolysis. The potential scope for starch-derived materials in industry is examined. The potential use in the manufacture of fine chemicals is explored.