Synthesis and characterization of bio-based eco-friendly biofilm composites reinforced with waste eggshell powder

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of biomass base ecofriendly biofilm composites reinforced with waste eggshells, utilizing biowaste materials as sources of starch and plasticizer, with eggshells serving as a filler to enhance overall material properties. Reusing biowaste is important in reducing environmental waste and promoting sustainable practices. Findings reveal that increasing eggshell content from 15 to 60% significantly reduces moisture absorption from 18.75 ± 0.02% to 5.31 ± 0.04%, while tensile strength declines from 8.18 ± 0.02 to 5.17 ± 0.02 MPa at constant glycerol levels. In contrast, glycerol enhances moisture retention, increasing absorbance from 18.75 ± 0.02% to 20.15 ± 0.02% as glycerol concentration rises from 5 to 20% in a 15% eggshell composite. The optimal biodegradability was achieved with a plasticizer concentration of 10% and a filler (clay) content of 30%, resulting in a degradation rate of 78.25 ± 0.01%. The eggshell at 30% and glycerol at 5% achieve a degradation rate of 87.31 ± 0.03%. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) reveal that the composites exhibit superior thermal stability, making them suitable for diverse applications. This research highlights the environmental benefits of biowaste materials, trade-offs in material performance, the need for moisture management in packaging, and enhancements from waste starch and plasticizer. These results underscore the potential for creating sustainable and functional composites through utilizing and reusing biowaste materials.