Engineering Sustainable Bioplastics

by Subba Rao K., Koti Bhanu Teja Vagdandam, Dilip Kumar Behara

This study explores the development and characterization of corn starch-based bioplastics as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic plastics. Using corn starch, glycerol, vinegar (5% acetic acid), and water, various compositions were tested to evaluate moisture content, tensile strength, solubility, biodegradability, and flammability. The results indicated that glycerol and vinegar content significantly influenced mechanical properties, with an optimal glycerol range of 8%-13% and vinegar range of 7%-14%. The biodegradability test showed 60% degradation in six days, and the flammability test revealed 90% combustion. The study concludes that the best-performing samples are suitable for packaging applications, offering a sustainable solution to plastic pollution.