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Synthesis and characterization of edible plastic based on waste-derived durian seed starch with patchouli leaf extract as eco-friendly primary packaging
Summary
Researchers produced edible bioplastic films from durian seed starch enriched with patchouli leaf extract and found that increasing starch concentration from 6% to 10% improved tensile strength, thickness, and elongation while achieving 65% biodegradation in 14 days and antimicrobial activity against E. coli, suggesting a viable food packaging alternative to petroleum-based plastic.
Plastic pollution from single-use food packaging remains a critical environmental challenge due to its persistence and non-biodegradability. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize edible bioplastics derived from durian seed starch enriched with patchouli leaf extract (Pogostemon cablin) as a bioactive agent. Starch was obtained through sedimentation and drying, while patchouli oil was extracted via the Soxhlet method. Bioplastic films were prepared using starch concentrations of 6%, 8%, and 10%, supplemented with 1% glycerol, 0.5 g CMC, and 1 mL patchouli extract through solvent casting. Increasing starch concentration enhanced film thickness (0.020-0.032 mm), tensile strength (up to 3.3913 MPa), and elongation (13.5801%). The films exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (<3.0 MPN/g) and achieved 65% biodegradation after 14 days. These results highlight the potential of durian seed starch enriched with patchouli extract as a sustainable bioplastic for primary food packaging applications.