Synthesis and Characterisation of Mango Seed Kernel Starch-Based Bioplastic with Plasticizer and Eggshell Filler

Ang, Wen Xuan (2024) Synthesis and Characterisation of Mango Seed Kernel Starch-Based Bioplastic with Plasticizer and Eggshell Filler. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

The accumulation of plastic waste and agriculture waste has brought negative impacts to our environment as petroleum-based plastic cannot be easily broken down in nature. Therefore, the development of bioplastics is essential. The purpose of this project is to explore the potential to develop and characterise the bioplastic using the starch from mango seed kernels as the main raw material. In this study, the incorporation of different composition of plasticizer and eggshell filler in mango seed kernel starch bioplastic to enhance the mechanical properties of bioplastic was investigated. The bioplastic films produced were characterized by using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), tensile test, water absorption test, and soil biodegradability test. Pure mango seed kernel starch bioplastic film (MS-Pure) was prepared as a control. Sorbitol and glycerol were used as plasticizer, and their results were compared at a concentration of 30%. Different concentration of sorbitol (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%) were then characterized. It was found that 30% was the optimum concentration for the incorporation of sorbitol to MS films, and the plasticizer had successfully increased the flexibility of the MS films. Besides that, different concentrations of eggshell filler were incorporated to the bioplastic films at 3%, 6%, and 9%. The eggshell powder (ESP) filler had provided stiffness and rigidity to the MS film. The soil biodegradability test also indicated that the MS films are capable of breaking down naturally in soil environments over time, making them an environmentally friendly option for reducing plastic waste.