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Biocomposite films utilizing sugar cane bagasse and banana peel aiming seedling applications

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Biomembranes 2025
Thiago Torres Matta Neves, Simone Pereira Taguchi Borges, Luiz Eduardo Pizarro Borges, Edla Maria Bezerra Lima, Cristiane Hess de Azevedo Meleiro, Ana Paula Moreira, Antonieta Middea, Renata Nunes Oliveira

Summary

Researchers developed biodegradable biocomposite films by combining poly(vinyl alcohol) with sugar cane bagasse and banana waste, finding that banana fiber-containing formulations showed stronger component interactions and higher water absorption, while all compositions increased biodegradation compared to conventional low-density polyethylene, making them promising candidates for seedling packaging applications.

Polymers

Abstract This study developed biocomposite films from poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), sugar cane bagasse (SCB), and banana peel fibers (BF) or starch-rich banana flour (BS). Morphological analysis revealed filler distribution and fluid percolation within the polymer matrix. Physicochemical analysis indicated stronger interactions between components in BF-containing films. Mechanical strength decreased significantly in SCB-containing films, while biodegradation increased, particularly with banana waste. Water absorption was higher in PVA-BF-SCB and PVA-BS-CSB biocomposites. Incorporating SCB and banana waste into PVA films presents a promising approach for developing biodegradable composite packaging materials, potentially replacing low-density polyethylene in applications like seedling production. This biodegradable material can be applied directly to the environment.

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