Synthesis and characterization of eco-friendly bioplastic from low-cost plant resources

Alarming rate of environmental pollution caused by single-use plastics has necessitated the search for developing sustainable yet, cost-effective alternatives. This study aimed to develop bioplastic films using combination of jackfruit waste flour and sago as a low-cost starch source. Three composite bioplastic films were developed using starch mix with lemon extract and water but with different cross-linkers: (1) PV (polylactic acid and crude palm oil), (2) AV (glycerol and crude palm oil), (3) PAV (polylactic acid, glycerol and crude palm oil). The formulated films' physical, chemical, mechanical and biological parameters were characterized. PV film showed the best tensile strength (TS) of 5.24 MPa and least elongation at break (EAB) of 3.49%, while PAV film had the least TS of 0.78 MPa with a maximum EAB (73.38%). FTIR analysis of films showed peak at 1736.3-1743.3 cm(-1) indicating strong interaction of triglycerides (C=O stretching). In thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), all the films displayed gradual desorption occurring between 150 and 220 degrees C where the volatile compounds started to evaporate and around 300 degrees C the lower molecular weight compounds like plasticizer, cross-linker and other additives started to release out; pyrolysis of carbonated compounds occurred above 500 degrees C. PAV film displayed best thermal stability with half decomposition at 330 degrees C. Biodegradability of films was demonstrated through soil burial method and culturing of pure cultures of microorganisms in minimal media by providing the film as carbon source. Bioplastic films developed in this study using low-cost plant starch sources have displayed properties with potential application in food packaging industry.