Biodegradation of Moringa oleifera's polymer blends

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Vegetable oils are crucial for synthesizing petroleum-like polymers, plasticizers, and biodegradable additives.
• Conventional polymers like LDPE and PBAT/PLA blends often exhibit poor tensile strength and limited biodegradability.
• Moringa oleifera oil presents a sustainable feedstock for novel polymer development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To polymerize Moringa oleifera oil without catalysts.
• To enhance the properties of conventional polymers (LDPE and PBAT/PLA blends) using the novel Moringa polymer (PMO).
• To evaluate the impact of PMO on the thermal, mechanical, and biodegradation characteristics of polymer films.

Main Methods:

• Extraction and microwave-assisted polymerization of Moringa oleifera oil.
• Characterization of the synthesized Moringa polymer (PMO) via double bond reduction and molecular weight analysis.
• Preparation and characterization of polymer films blending PMO with LDPE and PBAT/PLA at various concentrations.
• Assessment of thermal properties, crystalline phase, mechanical strength, and biodegradation behavior of the composite films.

Main Results:

• Moringa oil was successfully polymerized into PMO with a molecular weight up to 50,000 g/mol.
• PMO acted as a compatibilizer, improving thermal properties and reducing the crystalline phase in LDPE/PBAT/PLA blends.
• Biodegradation of the composite films improved up to fivefold compared to conventional polymers.
• The addition of PMO restored and enhanced the mechanical properties of the polymer films.

Conclusions:

• Polymerized Moringa oleifera oil (PMO) is an effective additive for enhancing the performance of conventional plastics.
• PMO improves both the environmental footprint (biodegradability) and mechanical integrity of polymer materials.
• This research offers a sustainable pathway for developing advanced biodegradable polymers from plant-based resources.