Biodegradable Starch-Based Films Incorporating Banana and Orange Waste for Agricultural Application

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Fruit wastes like banana peels and orange bagasse are typically discarded.
• Bioplastics offer a sustainable alternative for managing organic waste.
• Developing biodegradable materials from waste aligns with circular economy principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To produce biodegradable films using thermoplastic starch, banana peel, and orange bagasse.
• To evaluate the potential of these films for soil mulching and temporary plant packaging.
• To assess the environmental impact and performance of the developed bioplastics.

Main Methods:

• Films were prepared by casting soluble starch, glycerol, and deionized water.
• Incorporated varying blends of dried and ground banana peel and orange bagasse.
• Conducted analyses on raw materials and final biodegradable film products.

Main Results:

• All developed films showed signs of degradation.
• Seed germination rates were unaffected, ranging from 57% to 100%.
• Simulated application tests for mulching and packaging were successful.

Conclusions:

• Recycling organic fruit waste is beneficial for creating biodegradable films.
• The developed bioplastics promote resource recovery and reduce waste.
• These materials offer a sustainable solution for agricultural and packaging applications.