Studies on the development and characterization of bioplastic film from the red seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii)

Seaweeds rich in polysaccharides are considered commercially important because of their wide range of industrial applications. In this study, the red seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii was used for bioplastic film production. Plasticizer polyethylene glycol (PEG) to seaweed biomass ratio was optimized and a thin bioplastic film with higher tensile strength was produced. The films obtained were characterized by its thickness, tensile strength, colour (L, a, b), elongation at break (EAB), water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR). TG-DSC, AFM, SEM and FTIR spectroscopy analysis were performed to assess the composition, phase transitions and chemical reaction capabilities of the film. The bioplastic film obtained from 4% K. alvarezii (whole seaweed) showed better physical and mechanical properties, whereas TG-DSC, FTIR and AFM showed similar kind of bioplastic properties in all the concentrations. Decrease in OTR was observed against decreasing wall thickness of the film. The present study suggests that the seaweed would be a potential alternate source for bioplastic production which may reduce the usage of non-degradable plastics.