We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Biodegradable trays made from Poraqueiba serícea Tulasne seed starch and Zea Mays cob flour
AI summary Read the abstract
Not relevant to microplastics — this paper develops biodegradable food trays from Amazonian seed starch and corn cob flour as an alternative to petrochemical packaging, without addressing microplastic pollution.
The environmental impact of polystyrene and other petrochemical packaging has increased interest in researching biodegradable materials as alternatives. The main objective of this research was to develop biodegradable trays from five formulations of Poraqueiba sericea Tulasne (known as umari) seed starch and corn cob meal. The trays were produced using the thermoforming process applying temperatures of 135°C and 145°C for each side of the tray for a time of 6.5 min. Physical analysis of the trays showed that the increase in the percentage of corn cob flour caused changes in color (L*: 68.69 - 64.94), thickness (2.20 - 3.17 mm), density (0.251 - 0.414 g/cm3), moisture (3.85 - 5.68%), water absorption (21.86 - 39.05%), volatile solids (95.33 - 98.31%). Regarding mechanical properties, it was also evidenced the increase in hardness (67.70 - 90.97 N), fracturability (1.43 and 3.19 mm), tension (2.84 to 3.43 MPa) and elongation (1.54 to 2.04%). The formulation of 87.5% umari seed starch and 12.5% tusa flour presented more favorable physical and mechanical properties. Further analysis of this formulation was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which identified bands characteristic of starch (1055 and 1027 cm-1); X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed characteristic peaks (2θ = 16.83° and 2θ = 22.69°) associated with cellulose crystallinity in the biodegradable tray; and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed cellulosic voids with irregular distribution due to the addition of fibers. Future research should examine the potential applications of these biodegradable trays for the packaging of raw materials in the food industry.
More Papers Like This
Sorbitol-Based Biodegradable Plastics from Rubberized Cassava Starch and Tofu Dregs Starch
AI summary Read the abstract
Not relevant to microplastics — this study develops biodegradable plastic from cassava starch and tofu dregs with sorbitol as a plasticizer, focused on creating a petroleum-free alternative material rather than addressing microplastic contamination.
Development of sago-based edible plastic as primary packaging for instant food products
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a sago-based edible plastic as primary packaging for instant food products as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics that contribute to microplastic pollution. The bio-based packaging was designed to be safe for food contact and to reduce the accumulation of persistent plastic waste in ecosystems.
Bio-based and Sustainable Food Packaging Technology: Relevance, Challenges and Prospects
AI summary Read the abstract
A review assessed bio-based and sustainable food packaging technologies, evaluating their relevance as replacements for conventional plastic packaging that generates microplastic pollution. The study identifies the most promising materials and the barriers to scaling up plastic-free food packaging.
Elaboration of germinable bioplastic based on corn olot
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a germinable bioplastic from corn cob waste as a biodegradable alternative to conventional plastic materials. The bioplastic can both degrade and support plant germination when placed in soil, offering a sustainable alternative that avoids generating persistent microplastic fragments.
Biodegradable Packaging : a Key to Environmental Sustainability
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper reviews biodegradable packaging alternatives to conventional plastics, arguing that plant-based materials can reduce microplastic pollution in oceans, soil, and food systems. The authors survey available materials and manufacturing methods as part of a broader case for environmental sustainability.
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.