Sustainable Bioplastic Creation: Agar-Natural Polymer Composites for Packaging Applications
Presentation Type
Short presentation 10-15 minutes
In Person or Zoom Presentation
In-Person
Location
Student Union Event Center
Start Date
17-11-2025 8:15 AM
End Date
17-11-2025 8:30 AM
Presentation Description/Abstract
Global plastic use is projected to triple from 460 million tons in 2019 to 1,321 million tons by 2060, with packaging accounting for 40% of global plastic waste. Conventional plastics accumulate in landfills and oceans without degrading, creating an environmental crisis that demands sustainable packaging alternatives. This research explores biodegradable bioplastics using agar as the primary natural polymer combined with starch to develop advanced composites. Using a solution casting method, agar–starch films with varying ratios were formulated and optimized for consistent film formation and uniform properties. Thermal analysis revealed composition-dependent behavior, with higher agar content improving thermal stability. Water immersion tests showed that lower starch content reduced mass loss, while UV exposure caused measurable color changes. FTIR analysis confirmed physical blending without new chemical bonds, and all formulations exhibited biodegradation under natural conditions. Although the current composites need better mechanical and barrier properties to match conventional plastics, this study provides a framework for advancing agar-based polymers. The approach establishes processing and characterization methods for developing improved composites incorporating chitosan and nanocellulose. Future work can build on these strategies to achieve the performance required for sustainable packaging applications.
Sustainable Bioplastic Creation: Agar-Natural Polymer Composites for Packaging Applications
Student Union Event Center
Global plastic use is projected to triple from 460 million tons in 2019 to 1,321 million tons by 2060, with packaging accounting for 40% of global plastic waste. Conventional plastics accumulate in landfills and oceans without degrading, creating an environmental crisis that demands sustainable packaging alternatives. This research explores biodegradable bioplastics using agar as the primary natural polymer combined with starch to develop advanced composites. Using a solution casting method, agar–starch films with varying ratios were formulated and optimized for consistent film formation and uniform properties. Thermal analysis revealed composition-dependent behavior, with higher agar content improving thermal stability. Water immersion tests showed that lower starch content reduced mass loss, while UV exposure caused measurable color changes. FTIR analysis confirmed physical blending without new chemical bonds, and all formulations exhibited biodegradation under natural conditions. Although the current composites need better mechanical and barrier properties to match conventional plastics, this study provides a framework for advancing agar-based polymers. The approach establishes processing and characterization methods for developing improved composites incorporating chitosan and nanocellulose. Future work can build on these strategies to achieve the performance required for sustainable packaging applications.