Abstract
Riparian sediment (RS) is a translational zone separating aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. To this date, the bioplastic's UV ageing and biodegradation features in these contaminated sediments remain unknown. It is a considerable concern to investigate whether a food packaging film can interact with RS and riparian sediment-derived Dissolved Organic Matter (RS-DOM) during biodegradation and UV ageing respectively, after disposal in a natural environmental setting. To address this research gap, for the first time, this study investigates the biodegradation and UV ageing of starch/PPst/GTR films intended for food packaging applications in RS and RS-DOM respectively. The findings revealed that RS comprises major fulvic acid DOM components. Remarkably, research demonstrates the leaching of humic acid-like DOM from the film promotes aromaticity and humification as UV ageing progresses from the third to the tenth day. Comparable DOM samples were darkly analysed, revealing aromatic proteins I and II. Furthermore, an elevated carbonyl carboxyl index confirmed significant degradation of films during UV ageing. Lesser humification, aromaticity, and higher biological activity were confirmed by a HI < 10 and BIX > 0.6 respectively. In comprehension, these findings reveal that the starch/PPst/GTR food packaging film will have a lesser adverse environmental impact after disposal, offering a hopeful outlook for the future of bioplastics.
Published Version
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