Production of biopolymer films using groundnut oilcake

Abstract

Protein-based biopolymer films were produced using Groundnut (Arachis hypogea) oilcake. Thin, semi-transparent, brownish films were obtained, the films were smooth and uniform. The film was plasticized using PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and glycerol was added to improve the elasticity. This resulted in the film being more flexible and more like conventional plastics. The thickness of the film was found. The tensile strength and the elongation at break were calculated. The water absorption capacity of the films was also estimated. Further, FTIR and SEM analysis were done to find out the chemical structures and morphological microstructures of the film. X-ray diffraction studies were also done. Also, antimicrobial and antioxidant assays were performed to find out the potential of the film as active food packaging. All these tests prove that the GOC films are capable of being used as food packaging alternative for conventional plastics. Biopolymer films were prepared using the protein extracted from groundnut oilcake. Its various characteristics were evaluated. These films can be used as substitutes to conventional food packaging plastics. The development of new bio-materials from agricultural wastes/ by-products of oil industry, may be good and cheap sources of both energy and protein. The present study focused on obtaining useful protein-based biodegradable films for an eco-friendly option. Potential applications of the obtained bio-polymer films include wrapping of different fabricated foods for shelf-life extension. These types of protein-based films are very useful as they are readily biodegradable in nature and also, they are sourced from natural and renewable raw materials rather than petroleum-based plastics.