Abstract
This research is driven by stringent environmental legislation requiring the consumption and use of environmentally friendly materials. In this context, this paper is concerned with the development and characterization of thermoplastic arrowroot starch (TPAS) based biocomposite films by incorporating arrowroot fiber (AF) (0–10%) into a glycerol plasticized matrix by using the solution casting method. Developed TPAS/AF composite films were investigated, such as physical, morphological (FESEM), tensile, and tear strength characteristics. The tensile and tear strengths of TPAS/AF composites were increased significantly from 4.77 to 15.22 MPa and 0.87 to 1.28 MPa, respectively, as compared to the control TPAS films, which were 2.42 MPa and 0.83 MPa, respectively, while elongation was significantly decreased from 25.57 to 6.21% compared to control TPAS film, which was 46.62%. The findings revealed that after the fiber was reinforced, the mechanical properties were enhanced, and the optimum filler content was 10%. Regardless of fiber loadings, the results of water absorption testing revealed that the composite films immersed in seawater and rainwater absorbed more water than distilled water. Overall, the results of this research focus on providing information on biopolymer composite film and revealing the great potential it has for the food packaging industry.
Highlights
Introduction iationsFossil fuel-based polymers are one of the most common materials used in the packaging industry, which has long been a source of concern for the global ecosystem
The composite film sample arrowroot fiber (AF) 10% showed the highest thickness of 203 μm, compared to the other concentrations of 2%, 4% and 6%
Similar findings were reported on the influence of fiber additions on the thicknesses and densities of biopolymer composite films [6], the biocomposite films made from sugar palm cellulose fibers and starch [34], as well as seaweed fiber-reinforced sugar palm starch-based biocomposites [35]
Summary
Fossil fuel-based polymers are one of the most common materials used in the packaging industry, which has long been a source of concern for the global ecosystem. The overwhelming volume of environmentally hazardous plastic waste has prompted the research of polymers from natural sources, renewable, sustainable, and biodegradable. Biopolymers have been explored as potential alternatives for fossil-based plastics in an attempt to address the increasing environmental problems created by non-degradable plastics [1,2]. Various thermoplastic composites have been employed to make eco-friendly packaging products. The use of agricultural residues as sustainable filler materials has grown in significant popularity. Low density, and decreased tool wear are all recognized benefits of such resources, which benefit the manufacturing industry [3].
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