The Effect of Cellulose Loadings on the Properties of Tapioca/Banana Peels Starch Bioplastics

Abstract

The study aimed to create environmentally friendly plastic alternatives to petroleum-based ones by utilizing tapioca and banana peels. Bioplastic films were developed using a solvent casting technique with varying amounts of cellulose. Testing revealed that the banana peel- derived bioplastics displayed superior tensile strength (1,465.74 MPa), Young's modulus (14.35 MPa), and elongation at break (0.03%) compared to tapioca-based ones. Films containing banana peel had higher fiber and amylose content, while those with 9g of cellulose showed the lowest water absorption (73.08%). Water yielded the best results in the swelling test. Solubility tests revealed the film's insolubility in acetic acid, partial solubility in ammonia, and complete solubility in sulfuric acid. The study suggests that bioplastics made from banana peel and tapioca, enhanced with cellulose, exhibit robust resistance to various testing parameters, making them suitable for applications, notably in food packaging.