Midterm Pestano 2
Midterm Pestano 2
Midterm Pestano 2
Abstract
This study explores the production, properties, and environmental impacts of starch-
based bioplastics, emphasizing their biodegradability, low carbon footprint, and
potential for reducing plastic pollution. This shows the potential of corn and rice
starch-based bioplastics as eco-friendly alternatives to commercial plastics for
packaging applications. Several examples of bioplastics have been developed with
various compositions of corn and rice starch. Based on these findings, the
researchers examined further through thickness testing, biodegradability,
hydrophilicity evaluation, thermogravimetric analysis, and examination of the
bioplastic's sealing properties. The result of corn and rice based starch for bioplastic
shows a positive outcome for packaging applications.
Introduction
This study focuses on the development of eco-friendly thermoplastics as an
alternative packaging application to commercial plastics. Plastic has a vital role today
for industries and for various applications. However, during the production of
commercial plastics, the emissions of gas and different dangerous gases caused
environmental concerns. Addressing this environmental problem, this study
investigates the development of bioplastics as an alternative that will reduce fossil
fuel usage, plastic wastes, and carbon dioxide emissions. Researchers examined
corn and rice starch alternatives on which starch is more effective to make as
thermoplastics that will result in a positive and eco-friendly alternative to commercial
plastics. The research seeks a viable and sustainable solution to the plastic waste
predicament, paving the way for a greener and more environmentally responsible
future in the packaging industry.
Methodology
This study methodically tracked the methods of manually extracting starch from corn.
The thermoplastic starch (TPS) film, as well as corn and rice starch, was created in
the laboratory by the researchers. The researchers used a tensile test to measure
the initial grip and thickness of the starch while describing the samples. The moisture
content, water solubility, water contact angle measurement, and biodegradability of
the bioplastic starches were all evaluated by the researchers. This research also
included Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Thermogravimetric analysis. The
researchers employed the bar sealing approach to establish a seal in most
form/fill/seal machines when sealing the characteristics of the bioplastics. In the
heat-sealing process, heat is employed to melt the sealing layer to a molten state or
to partially melt it to effect sealing.
Marichelvam, M., Jawaid, M., & Asim, M. (2019). Corn and rice Starch-Based
Bio-Plastics as alternative packaging materials. Fibers, 7(4), 32.
https://doi.org/10.3390/fib7040032