A group of scientists from Malaysian and Thai universities have worked together to create a special type of bioplastic sheet that can naturally decompose and is good for the environment.
A group of scientists from Malaysian and Thai universities have worked together to create a special type of bioplastic sheet that can naturally decompose and is good for the environment.
The leftover pineapple stems from the bromelain industry, which used agricultural waste, were used to make this bioplastic sheet. As a replacement for harmful plastic sheet, this novel type of bioplastic sheet has the potential to be used as single-use packaging material, fostering a more sustainable way of doing business and the circular economy. The study has been released in the journal Polymers.
Plastic waste is a major environmental issue, particularly small plastic items like bread clips that are challenging to recycle or dispose of and may harm living things. The use of biodegradable polymers for single-use applications and the implementation of plastic bans in some nations are examples of suggested remedies.
Various options fall under the category of biodegradable polymers, including starch, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and polyhydroxybutyrate, as well as fully synthetic polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), partially biobased polybutylene succinate (PBS), and fully biobased polybutylene succinate (PBS) (PHB).
However, it is crucial to understand that not all biodegradable polymers have the same qualities, and it is crucial to comprehend the particular characteristics and restrictions related to each type.
For instance, commonly used biodegradable polymers like PLA, PBAT, and PBS do not readily degrade in their natural environments, necessitating particular conditions like the controlled humidity and temperature typically found in commercial composting facilities.
Proper disposal and collection of biodegradable materials are crucial for their complete degradation. Starch-based materials, PHAs, and PHBs are fully biodegradable in natural environments, making them suitable for applications where convenient collection and recycling are challenging or economically unviable. These materials offer a practical and environmentally friendly solution for specific waste types.
To make a robust, simple-to-form substance, the team combined calcium carbonate, glycerol, and pineapple stem starch as the main ingredients.
The substance resisted water and absorbed less of it than other substances. It disintegrated into tiny fragments after two weeks and even served as a bread clip. This sustainable substitute for plastics derived from petroleum encourages the circular economy and small-scale plastics production.