Synthesis and Characterization of Bioplastic from Carrot Starch and Green Mussel Shell Chitosan

Abstract

Conventional plastics made from crude oil, which are difficult to decompose, have become an urgent global issue. Because of their nature, these conventional plastics pose a threat to ecosystems. To address this issue, bioplastics have been developed as an environmentally friendly alternative. Using renewable starch from carrots and chitosan from mussel shells as the main materials, the synthesized bioplastic can be degraded within a specified period. In this study, the optimal synthesis conditions for bioplastic were determined, and its plastic characteristics, such as mechanical and degradation properties, were tested. Functional group analysis using FTIR confirmed that the synthesized bioplastic had characteristic chitosan bands (OH, NH, amide I/II, C-O-C), and O-H broadening upon the addition of a plasticizer indicated the formation of hydrogen bonding within the polymer matrix. Based on test results for flexibility, tensile strength, and biodegradability, the bioplastic comprising 5% w/v starch, 2% w/v chitosan, and 1 mL of glycerol exhibited optimal properties. SEM analysis revealed a dense morphology, indicating favorable barrier and mechanical properties. The synthesized bioplastic has a tensile strength of 4.5529 MPa, which is within the range of commonly reported starch-chitosan bioplastics, and a biodegradability of 23.6%.