| Summary: | Starch can be efficiently converted into the corresponding formates homogeneously using <i>N</i>-formyl imidazole obtained by the reaction of 1,1′-carbonyldiimidazole and formic acid in dimethyl sulfoxide as a solvent. Starch formates are soluble in polar aprotic solvents, not susceptible against hydrolysis, and not meltable. Thermoplastics could be generated by conversion of starch formates with long-chain fatty acids exemplified by the conversion with lauroyl chloride in <i>N,N</i>-dimethylacetamide, leading to mixed starch laurate formates. The mixed esters show melting temperatures mainly dependent on the amount of laurate ester moieties.
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