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Cassava Starch-Onion Peel Powder Biocomposite Films: Functional, Mechanical, and Barrier Properties for Biodegradable
Assala Torche1, Toufik Chouana1, Soufiane Bensalem2,3
1Laboratory of Protection of Ecosystems in Arid and Semi-Arid Zones (eco-sys), Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Kasdi Merbah University, Ouargla 30000, Algeria.
Polymers
|October 16, 2025
Summary
This study developed biodegradable films from cassava starch and onion peel powder (OPP), creating functional packaging materials. These sustainable films offer improved strength and suitability for light-sensitive food packaging.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Food Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Agro-industrial by-products like onion peels are rich in valuable compounds.
- Developing biodegradable films from sustainable sources is crucial for reducing plastic waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- To valorize onion peel powder (OPP) for creating cassava starch-based biodegradable films.
- To investigate the effects of OPP incorporation on film properties and potential applications.
Main Methods:
- Solution casting method using cassava starch, glycerol, and OPP.
- Characterization of film properties including thickness, moisture content, solubility, water vapor permeability (WVP), thermal stability (TGA/DSC), morphology (SEM), chemical interactions (FTIR/XRD), mechanical strength, and biodegradability.
Main Results:
- OPP incorporation enhanced film opacity and thickness, while decreasing moisture content and solubility.
- Water vapor permeability increased significantly, indicating hydrophilic properties of OPP.
- Films exhibited good thermal stability up to 245 °C, improved tensile strength, and reduced elongation.
- Biodegradability was slightly reduced, attributed to antimicrobial phenolics in OPP.
Conclusions:
- Cassava starch and OPP are viable, low-cost materials for functional biodegradable films.
- These films show potential for sustainable food packaging, especially for light-sensitive products.
- Further research can optimize OPP content for tailored film properties and biodegradability.
