We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Revalorisation of a residue from the maize-snack industry through the development of bio-based materials. Effect of the plasticiser
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers explored Nejayote, a waste product from the maize-snack industry, as a raw material for sustainable bioplastics, finding that glycerol and water plasticizer combinations yielded injection-moldable materials with up to 75% water uptake capacity, offering a promising route for upcycling industrial food waste.
The current reliance on traditional plastics necessitates exploring natural-based alternatives derived from industrial by-products and waste. This study focuses on Nejayote, a waste product from the maize-snack industry, assessing its potential as a raw material. Glycerol and water (Gly and H2O) were employed as plasticisers in injection-moulded nejayote-based bioplastics, and their evaluation through rheological, tensile, water uptake, and SEM microscopy tests. Higher H2O ratios resulted in more easily processable blends with reduced consistency (η* decreased from (6.2 ± 0.2)·105 to (1.2 ± 0.5)·104 Pa s). However, the formulation with the highest H2O content exhibited increased consistency (η* = (5.3 ± 0.3)·107 Pa s), since glycerol enhanced biopolymer chain mobility. Intermediate plasticiser combinations demonstrated a water uptake capacity of ∼75%, making these bioplastics versatile for various applications. This research highlights the potential of utilising “Nejayote” and optimising formulation for sustainable bioplastic development.
More Papers Like This
Local Resources, Global Impact: Crafting Bioplastics from Salak and Cassava in Indonesia
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper explores the production of bioplastics using locally sourced raw materials as a strategy for reducing dependence on fossil-fuel-based plastics and lowering supply chain emissions. Researchers examine how region-specific agricultural or biological feedstocks can be processed into functional bioplastic materials. The work highlights the potential for community-scale bioplastic production to contribute to global sustainability goals while supporting local economies.
Análisis de propiedades físicas de plásticos desarrollados a partir de materiales biodegradables
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed bioplastics from corn and potato starch combined with glycerin, acetic acid, and maleic anhydride, varying the addition of maguey bagasse fiber to improve physical properties. Results showed average moisture content of 7–9% and solubility around 27–28%, with bagasse addition benefiting physical characteristics in both starch types.
Starch‐Based Polymer Composites for Sustainable Food Packaging: Advances in Bioplastic Development
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined production mechanisms, structural modifications, and industrial applications of starch-based bioplastics for food packaging, discussing the role of plasticizers and physical and chemical treatments that enhance hydrophobicity, mechanical strength, and thermal stability. While starch-based bioplastics offer biodegradability and renewable origins supporting a circular economy, the review concluded that trade-offs with food production feedstocks and higher manufacturing costs compared to conventional plastics mean they are not a complete long-term solution to plastic pollution.
Synthesis and Characterization of Starch-Based Bioplastics Derived from Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Peels and Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (Elaeis guineensis)
AI summary Read the abstract
This study synthesized and characterized bioplastics from cassava peel starch and cellulose from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB), testing 10 variants by varying cellulose (0–50%) and glycerol (0–50%) concentrations. Cellulose increased tensile strength from 3.7 to 12.1 MPa and reduced water absorption and biodegradation rate, while glycerol enhanced flexibility but increased hydrophilicity, with a strong correlation (R² = 0.89) between water absorption and biodegradation confirming moisture governs the degradation process.
Plant derived Starch for the Production of Biodegradable Plastic
AI summary Read the abstract
This study reviews the production of biodegradable plastics from plant-derived starches, examining sources such as corn, potato, and cassava combined with glycerol plasticizer to create thin films. While starch-based bioplastics offer a renewable and compostable alternative to petroleum plastics, challenges including moisture sensitivity and reduced structural durability must be exceeded before widespread adoption in food packaging.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.