DEVELOPING A BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING MATERIAL USING BANANA PEEL-BASED PLASTIC

Single-use plastics in packaging and service ware contribute the most to plastic pollution which leads to global accumulation of non-degradable wastes. A promising solution to this issue should be favorably banana plastic, a lightweight, durable, and biodegradable alternative to high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polystyrene plastic. In this study, the application of banana plastic as a packaging material was examined with modifications to the synthesis process for further efficiency and industrial viability. Banana plastic was synthesized by grinding banana peels and using the chemical processes of acidification for HCl hydrolysis, glycerin plasticization, and NaOH neutralization, followed by a 72 hour dry and modified heat treatment at 65°C in a dehumidifier. Sodium metabisulfite was used to control the degree of biodegradability of the banana plastic. Using Onshape and Flashforge 3D printing software, the optimal packaging mold with the least shrinkage and maximum printing efficiency was created and used for producing the packaging materials. Data suggested that a concentration of 0.1 M Na2S2O5 created the sustainable and durable packing materials. A percent weight decrease of 64.95% was recorded over 12 weeks in degradability monitoring at a 37°C incubator, demonstrating the compostable characters of the banana plastic. Because of the bioplastic’s unique chemical and physical qualities, banana plastic created with a concentration of 0.1 M Na2S2O5 could be a sustainable alternative to industrial packing materials.