Effect of Polylactic Acid (PLA) Blends on Cellulose Degradable Plastics from the Lotus Stem (Nelumbo nucifera)

Lotus stems contain cellulose, which can be utilized as a base material for producing green products, specifically degradable plastics. This research investigates the effect of polylactic acid (PLA) blends on cellulose degradable plastics from the lotus stem (Nelumbo nucifera). The mechanical characteristics are as follows: tensile strength of 0.7703-3.3212 MPa, elongation of 0.58-1.16%, Young's modulus of 78.7894-364.6118 MPa. Compound analysis showed the presence of O-H, C-C, and C=O groups, and the presence of microbial activity in the soil can also lead to the degradation of these groups due to their hydrophilic nature, which allows them to bind water. Thermal analysis within a temperature range of 413.24 °C to 519.80 °C, shows that significant weight loss begins with the formation of crystalline structures. The degradable plastic exhibiting the lowest degree of swelling consists of 1 g of cellulose and 8 g of PLA, resulting in a swelling value of 6.25%. The degradable plastic is anticipated to decompose most rapidly after 52 days, utilizing 2 g of PLA and 7 g of cellulose. This complies with standard requirement, which sets a maximum degradation period of 180 days for polymers.