Synthesis, Analysis and Applications of Biopolymer

using Waste

Project report submitted to

Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur in
partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of
the degree

Bachelor of Technology
In
Chemical Engineering
by

Devendra Jaiswal (BT21CME043)

Radhay Shyam Thakur (BT21CME084)
Shreya Dhote (BT21CME111)

under the guidance of

Dr. Shriram Sonawane

Professor,
Department of Chemical Engineering,
Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology

Department of Chemical Engineering

Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology
Nagpur 440 010 (India)

2024-2025

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 © Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT)

Department of Chemical Engineering

Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur

Declaration
We, hereby declare that this project work titled “Synthesis, Analysis and
Applications of Biopolymer using Waste” is carried out by us in the Department of
Chemical Engineering of Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur. The work
is original and has not been submitted earlier whole or in part for the award of any
degree/diploma at this or any other Institution / University.

Sr.No. Enrollment No Names Signature

1 BT21CME043 Devendra
Kumar
Jaiswal
2 BT21CME084 Radhay
Shyam
Thakur
3 BT21CME111 Shreya
Pramod
Dhote

Date: 12/12/2024

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 Certificate
This is to certify that the project titled “Biodegradable Plastic”, submitted in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Technology
in Chemical Engineering, VNIT Nagpur. The work is comprehensive, complete and
fit for final evaluation.

Dr. Shriram Sonawane

Professor, Chemical Engineering, VNIT, Nagpur

Head, Department of Chemical Engineering

VNIT, Nagpur
Date:

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 Acknowledgement

This project has been made possible through the unwavering support, encouragement, and
belief of many individuals, each of whom has played a significant role in guiding us
through this journey.

First and foremost, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed
professor, Dr. Shriram Sonawane Sir, and Vrushali Khedkar Madam, whose
invaluable guidance, patience, and continuous motivation have been the cornerstones of
our progress. Their profound knowledge, unwavering belief in our abilities, and constant
support inspired us to strive for excellence, even when challenges seemed insurmountable.
Their words of encouragement and constructive feedback not only refined our work but
also helped us grow personally and academically.

We are equally indebted to our friends and batchmates, whose constant camaraderie has
been a source of immense strength and positivity. Their readiness to extend a helping hand,
share insights, and uplift us during difficult times has made this journey memorable and
rewarding. It is their kindness, patience, and belief in our goals that truly brought light to
the most challenging moments, turning obstacles into stepping stones toward success.

To our families, whose unconditional love and support have been the foundation of all our
achievements, we owe everything. Their sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering faith
in us gave us the courage to persevere through every obstacle.

Finally, we are grateful to everyone—mentors, well-wishers, and even those whose small
yet significant contributions added value to this endeavour. This project stands as a
testament to the collective efforts, kindness, and encouragement we have been blessed to
receive.

Thank you all for being part of this journey and for making this accomplishment not just a
milestone but also a cherished memory.

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5
 Abstract

The global environmental crisis driven by the overuse of conventional plastics highlights
an urgent need for sustainable alternatives. This study investigates the potential of utilizing
banana peels, an agricultural by-product, as a raw material for biodegradable plastic
production. Banana peels are rich in cellulose, lignin, and starch, making them suitable for
polymer synthesis. The research also explores integrating volatile fatty acids (VFAs), by-
products of dihydrogen production from agricultural waste, to enhance the bioplastic
synthesis process.

Key methodologies include the extraction of biopolymers, chemical characterization

(FTIR, XRD, TGA analysis), and performance tests such as biodegradability, solubility,
and swelling. The findings demonstrate that bioplastics derived from banana peels exhibit
desirable properties, including biodegradability, structural stability, and environmental
compatibility. This innovation supports waste management, reduces dependency on fossil
fuels, and aligns with global efforts toward a circular economy.

By converting organic waste into valuable resources, this project provides a viable solution
to mitigate plastic pollution and enhance sustainability.

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 CONTENTS

Declaration .................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Certificate ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Abstract ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 8
1.1. LITERATURE REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 9
1.2. PROBLEM STATEMENT ................................................................................................................... 19
1.3. OBJECTIVES .......................................................................................................................................... 20
1.4. METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................................. 21
2. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ................................................................................................................. 23
3. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK ................................................................................................. 28
4. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................. 31

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 1. INTRODUCTION

The world faces an escalating environmental crisis due to the excessive reliance on
conventional plastics, leading to severe challenges such as non-biodegradable waste
accumulation, marine pollution, and ecosystem degradation. Addressing these issues
requires innovative solutions that promote sustainability and resource efficiency.

This project explores the potential of banana peels—an agricultural by-product rich in
cellulose, lignin, and starch—as a raw material for producing biodegradable plastics. By
leveraging the properties of banana peels and integrating volatile fatty acids (VFAs)
derived from agricultural waste, we aim to develop eco-friendly alternatives to
conventional plastics.

Through this study, we seek to optimize the production process, evaluate the properties of
the bioplastics, and highlight their environmental and economic benefits. The research
aligns with global efforts toward a circular economy, transforming organic waste into
valuable, sustainable products and mitigating the adverse impacts of plastic pollution.

The scope of this project extends beyond addressing the immediate challenges posed by
plastic pollution. By exploring the use of banana peels and VFAs, it supports the
development of a circular economy, where waste is not merely discarded but repurposed
into innovative solutions. This approach not only reduces dependency on petroleum-based
plastics but also adds value to agricultural by-products, aligning with sustainability goals.

Our work involves the synthesis and characterization of bioplastics, including testing their
structural, thermal, and functional properties. Techniques such as Fourier Transform
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Thermal Gravimetric
Analysis (TGA) have been employed to evaluate the bioplastic's performance and
suitability for practical applications like packaging and other consumer goods. Additional
tests, including biodegradability, solubility, and swelling analysis, validate the eco-friendly
nature of the material.

This project is a step toward creating sustainable solutions in material science, addressing
environmental concerns, and promoting a greener future.

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 1.1. LITERATURE REVIEW
Bioplastic Production from Agricultural and Industrial Waste

This detailed literature review consolidates key insights, descriptions, methodologies, and
outcomes from studies focused on the production of biodegradable plastics using
agricultural and industrial waste as raw materials. Each reference highlights the
contribution to sustainable material development and circular economy principles.

1. Quintero-Silva, M. J., et al. (2024)

Title: "Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates Using Bacillus megaterium and Cacao Fruit

Liquid Residues"

Description:
This study explores the potential of cacao fruit liquid residues, a by-product of the
chocolate industry, as a sustainable carbon source for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)
production. The microbial fermentation process was conducted using Bacillus megaterium,
a bacterium known for efficient PHA synthesis.

Methodology:

• Fermentation was carried out with optimized conditions: temperature at 37°C, pH

at 7.0, agitation at 150 rpm, and nitrogen limitation.
• Analytical techniques included Gas Chromatography (GC) to measure PHA yield
and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to characterize the
polymer composition.
• The mechanical properties of PHAs were evaluated via tensile strength tests, and
thermal properties were assessed through decomposition temperature
measurements.

Key Results and Data:

• PHA Yield: 65% dry cell weight (DCW).

• Tensile Strength: 21 MPa.
• Thermal Decomposition Temperature: 180°C.

Outcome:
The research demonstrated the feasibility of converting cacao residues into PHAs with
robust mechanical and thermal properties. This valorization of cacao waste supports the
principles of a circular bioeconomy, offering a sustainable and high-value alternative to
petroleum-based plastics.

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2. Karne, H. U., et al. (2024)

Title: "Eco-Friendly Bioplastics from Banana Peel Starch: A Sustainable Alternative"

Description:
This study focuses on the extraction of starch from banana peels and its transformation into
biodegradable plastics. The goal was to create a scalable, eco-friendly alternative to
conventional plastics while addressing agricultural waste management.

Methodology:

• Starch Extraction Process:

o Banana peels were dried, milled, and hydrolyzed to extract starch.
• Bioplastic Formation:
o The extracted starch was plasticized with glycerol and gelatinized to form
bioplastics.
• Characterization:
o Mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break) were tested.
o Biodegradation rates were evaluated via soil burial tests.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength: 3.2 MPa.

• Elongation at Break: 15%.
• Biodegradation Rate: 80% within 30 days.

Outcome:
The study demonstrated that banana peel-derived starch bioplastics offer good mechanical
flexibility and rapid biodegradability. This scalable method provides a sustainable solution
for replacing petroleum-based plastics and reducing environmental pollution.

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3. Mora Martínez, A. L., et al. (2024)

Title: "Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-co-3-Hydroxyvalerate) Production Using Biogas

Digestate"

Description:
This research investigates the production of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-
hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) using biogas digestate, a by-product of anaerobic digestion, as a
nutrient-rich feedstock. The study highlights the dual benefits of waste management and
bioplastic production.

Methodology:

• Microorganism: Bacillus megaterium LVN01.

• Cultivation: Biogas digestate served as a source of nitrogen and micronutrients.
• Characterization Techniques:
o Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) for thermal analysis.
o Tensile Testing to evaluate mechanical properties.

Key Results and Data:

• PHBV Yield: 0.6 g/g substrate.

• Thermal Decomposition Temperature: 180°C.
• Elongation at Break: 20%.
• Tensile Strength: 18 MPa.

Outcome:
PHBV derived from biogas digestate demonstrated enhanced thermal and mechanical
properties compared to standard PHB. This research supports sustainable waste
valorization and the potential for high-performance bioplastics in various applications.

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4. Arjun, J., et al. (2023)

Title: "Starch-Based Bioplastics from Banana Peels: A Case Study"

Description:
This case study investigates the mechanical and biodegradation properties of bioplastics
made from banana peel starch. The research focused on the potential for packaging
applications using simple extraction and plasticization processes.

Methodology:

• Starch Extraction: Water-based extraction method.

• Plasticization: Blending starch with glycerol to enhance flexibility.
• Testing:
o Tensile Testing for mechanical strength.
o Soil Burial Tests for biodegradation assessment.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength: 2.8 MPa.

• Biodegradation Rate: 90% within 40 days.
• Water Absorption: 40% after 24 hours.

Outcome:
The study validated banana peel-derived bioplastics for short-term applications like
packaging, offering a low-cost and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic
plastics.

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5. Noorjahan, C. M., et al. (2022)

Title: "Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of Bioplastics Derived from Banana

Peels"

Description:
This research optimized the process of extracting starch from banana peels and converting
it into bioplastics. The thermal stability and mechanical properties of the resulting
bioplastics were characterized to assess their industrial applicability.

Methodology:

• Starch Extraction: Drying banana peels at 60°C, milling, and aqueous extraction.
• Bioplastic Preparation: Plasticization with glycerol and film casting.
• Characterization:
o DSC for thermal properties.
o Tensile Testing for mechanical strength.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength: 3.0 MPa.

• Biodegradation Rate: 85% within 28 days.
• Thermal Stability: Up to 150°C.

Outcome:
The research demonstrated a scalable method for converting banana peel waste into
bioplastics with competitive thermal and mechanical properties, supporting sustainable
waste-to-value pathways.

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6. Kacanski, M., et al. (2022)

Title: "Enhancing PHA Production Using Volatile Fatty Acids and Cell Retention
Techniques"

Description:
This study explores the potential of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) derived from organic waste
as substrates for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production. An innovative cell retention
technique was employed to improve microbial efficiency and enhance PHA yield.

Methodology:

• Substrate Preparation: VFAs were obtained through the anaerobic digestion of

organic waste.
• Microbial Fermentation: Cupriavidus necator was used as the PHA-producing
strain.
• Cell Retention System: A membrane bioreactor (MBR) was implemented to retain
cells during fermentation, increasing productivity.
• Analytical Methods:
o Gas Chromatography (GC) for quantifying PHA content.
o Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for morphological analysis.

Key Results and Data:

• PHA Yield: Increased by 70% with a productivity of 0.8 g/L/hr.

• Polymer Composition: High levels of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and
polyhydroxyvalerate (PHV).
• Tensile Strength: 22 MPa.

Outcome:
This study demonstrated the economic and environmental benefits of using VFAs from
organic waste and cell retention techniques to produce PHAs efficiently. The approach
highlights potential cost reductions and scalability for industrial bioplastic production.

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7. Jerlin Vinodh, et al. (2021)

Title: "Bioplastics from Banana Peels: A Sustainable Approach"

Description:
This research focuses on extracting starch from banana peels and converting it into
biodegradable plastics. The study emphasizes the potential of banana peels as an affordable
and renewable resource for sustainable packaging materials.

Methodology:

• Starch Extraction: Banana peels were washed, dried, ground, and subjected to hot
water extraction.
• Plasticization: Starch was combined with glycerol as a plasticizer to improve
flexibility.
• Characterization:
o Tensile Testing for mechanical strength.
o Soil Burial Test for biodegradability assessment.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength: 2.5 MPa.

• Biodegradation Rate: 88% within 35 days.
• Water Absorption: 45% over 24 hours.

Outcome:
The study validated the feasibility of banana peel-derived bioplastics for short-term
applications like packaging. The high biodegradability and mechanical properties make
this approach an effective strategy for sustainable waste utilization.

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8. Chandarana, J., et al. (2021)

Title: "Optimizing Bioplastic Synthesis from Banana Peels Using Chemical and Enzymatic
Methods"

Description:
This study compares chemical and enzymatic methods for converting banana peel starch
into bioplastics. It evaluates the effects of these methods on the mechanical, thermal, and
biodegradation properties of the resulting materials.

Methodology:

• Chemical Method: Acid hydrolysis of banana peels to extract starch.

• Enzymatic Method: Use of α-amylase and amyloglucosidase for controlled
hydrolysis.
• Plasticization: Incorporation of glycerol for flexibility.
• Characterization Techniques:
o Tensile Testing for mechanical strength.
o Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) for thermal stability.
o Soil Burial Tests for biodegradation rates.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength:
o Chemical Method: 3.0 MPa.
o Enzymatic Method: 3.5 MPa.
• Biodegradation Rate:
o Chemical Method: 85% in 35 days.
o Enzymatic Method: 92% in 30 days.
• Thermal Stability: Up to 160°C for enzymatically produced bioplastics.

Outcome:
Enzymatic methods yielded bioplastics with superior tensile strength and biodegradability
compared to chemical methods. The findings support enzymatic hydrolysis as a more
sustainable and effective technique for producing bioplastics from banana peels.

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9. Vu, D. H., et al. (2021)

Title: "Polyhydroxyalkanoates Production Using VFAs from Food Waste"

Description:
This study integrates food waste management with bioplastic production by using volatile
fatty acids (VFAs) derived from food waste as feedstock for PHA production. The process
highlights a sustainable approach to waste valorization and bioplastic synthesis.

Methodology:

• Substrate Preparation: Food waste was subjected to anaerobic digestion to

produce VFAs.
• Fermentation: Bacillus megaterium was cultivated in VFA-rich media under
controlled conditions (pH 7.0, temperature 35°C).
• Characterization:
o GC-MS for PHA quantification.
o FTIR for polymer composition analysis.

Key Results and Data:

• PHA Yield: 0.9 g/L/hr.

• Polymer Composition: Predominantly polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).
• Mechanical Properties:
o Tensile Strength: 20 MPa.
o Elongation at Break: 10%.

Outcome:
The study successfully demonstrated that VFAs derived from food waste can serve as an
effective carbon source for PHA production. This approach provides a dual benefit of
managing food waste and producing biodegradable plastics, supporting circular economy
principles.

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10. Gaonkar, M. R., et al. (2018)

Title: "Foundational Study on Bioplastics from Banana Peels"

Description:
This pioneering study explores the extraction of starch from banana peels and its
conversion into bioplastics. The research aimed to establish fundamental knowledge on the
mechanical and biodegradation properties of banana peel-derived bioplastics.

Methodology:

• Starch Extraction: Banana peels were dried, milled, and hydrolyzed to obtain
starch.
• Bioplastic Formation: The starch was plasticized with glycerol and molded into
thin films.
• Characterization:
o Tensile Testing for mechanical strength.
o Biodegradation Tests under soil conditions.

Key Results and Data:

• Tensile Strength: 2.2 MPa.

• Biodegradation Rate: 80% within 30 days.
• Water Absorption: 50% after 24 hours.

Outcome:
This foundational study set the stage for future research on bioplastics derived from banana
peels. The results demonstrated promising mechanical properties and biodegradation rates,
validating banana peels as a valuable feedstock for sustainable bioplastics.

Summary of Insights and Contributions

The reviewed studies highlight key advancements in bioplastic production using

agricultural and industrial waste:

1. Feedstock Utilization:
o Effective use of banana peels, cacao residues, and VFAs from organic
waste and food waste.
2. Innovative Techniques:
o Enzymatic hydrolysis, cell retention systems, and optimized fermentation
processes to enhance yields and polymer properties.
3. Material Performance:
o Achieved bioplastics with tensile strengths ranging from 2.2 MPa to 22
MPa and biodegradation rates between 80% and 92% within 30-40 days.
4. Environmental Impact:
o Integration of waste valorization and bioplastic production to support
circular economy principles and reduce plastic pollution.

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 1.2. PROBLEM STATEMENT

• Environmental Crisis: Over 8 million tons of plastic waste enter oceans

annually, causing significant harm to ecosystems and wildlife.

• Non-Biodegradable Plastics: Conventional plastics persist for hundreds of

years, leading to long-term environmental degradation.

• Waste Management Issues: Agricultural by-products like banana peels are

often discarded, contributing to organic waste problems.

This study explores the production of bioplastics from banana peels and volatile fatty acids
(VFAs) derived from dihydrogen production as a by-product of agricultural waste. It
focuses on optimizing VFA integration, evaluating properties, and promoting a circular
economy to address plastic pollution and waste management.

It promotes resource efficiency, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigates waste
management challenges. The research aligns with global efforts toward a circular economy
and provides innovative solutions to reduce plastic pollution while adding value to
agricultural by-products.

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 1.3. OBJECTIVES
This project aims to accomplish the following key objectives:

1. Production of Bioplastics from Banana Peels:

o To explore the potential of banana peels, a widely available agricultural
waste, as a raw material for producing sustainable bioplastics. The project
will investigate the extraction of valuable compounds from banana peels
and their transformation into bioplastic materials.
2. Bioplastic Production from Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA):
o To utilize volatile fatty acids (VFAs), which are byproducts of biohydrogen
synthesis, in the production of bioplastics. VFAs, being a renewable and
biodegradable resource, offer an eco-friendly alternative to conventional
petroleum-based plastics.
3. Chemical Synthesis of Biopolymers:
o To develop and optimize the chemical processes involved in synthesizing
biopolymers, which are the building blocks of bioplastics. This will include
evaluating different chemical pathways for producing biopolymers with
desirable properties for industrial and environmental applications.
4. Characterization of Biopolymers:
o To perform detailed characterization of the produced bioplastics using
advanced analytical techniques, including:
▪ FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy): To identify
functional groups and chemical bonds present in the bioplastic
material.
▪ XRD (X-ray Diffraction): To study the crystallinity and structural
properties of the biopolymer.
▪ TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis): To assess the thermal
stability and degradation behavior of the bioplastics.
5. Biodegradability, Swelling, and Solubility Testing:
o To evaluate the environmental performance of the bioplastics by testing
their biodegradability in different environmental conditions.
o To assess the swelling behavior of the bioplastics when exposed to water or
other solvents, as well as their solubility characteristics, which are crucial
for practical applications.

By achieving these objectives, the project aims to develop environmentally friendly

alternatives to conventional plastics, utilizing renewable and waste-derived resources,
while ensuring that the produced materials meet the necessary functional and
environmental standards.

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 1.4. METHODOLOGY

Materials Required:

1. Raw Material:
o Banana peels (preferably fresh and ripe, as they contain higher starch
content).
2. Chemicals:
o Hydrochloric acid (0.1N) for hydrolysis of amylopectin.
o Glycerol as a plasticizer to enhance flexibility.
o Sodium hydroxide (0.1N) for pH neutralization.

Procedure:

1) Preparation of Banana Paste:

• Selection and Boiling:

o Choose ripe banana peels for better starch content. Place the peels in a
beaker and add water to cover them completely. Boil the peels for 30
minutes to soften the fiber and loosen the starch.

• Drying:
o Carefully remove the peels from the water using tongs. Place the peels on
filter paper and allow them to dry for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
• Grinding:
o Once dried, crush the peels into a fine and uniform paste using a mortar and
pestle.

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2) Synthesis of Biopolymer:

• Mixing:
o Weigh 25 grams of banana paste and transfer it to a clean beaker. Add 3 mL
of 0.1 N Hydrochloric acid to facilitate hydrolysis of amylopectin into
smaller chains. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a glass rod.
• Plasticization:
o Add 2 mL of glycerol and mix well to improve the flexibility of the resulting
plastic.
• Neutralization:
o Gradually add 3 mL of 0.1 N Sodium hydroxide while stirring to neutralize
the pH to approximately 7.
• Forming the Film:
o Pour the resulting mixture onto a clean glass petri plate, ensuring an even
spread for uniform thickness.
• Curing:
o Place the petri plate in an oven preheated to 130°C. Bake until the mixture
is completely dry and forms a solid film (duration varies with thickness,
typically 2 hours).
• Cooling:
o Remove the petri plate from the oven and allow it to cool at room
temperature.
• Extraction:
o Carefully scrape off the solidified bioplastic film from the petri plate using
a flat tool.

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2. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

1. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

To investigate chemical interactions and identify functional groups present in the
bioplastic.

• Range: Wavelengths between 400 cm⁻¹ and 4000 cm⁻¹.

Key Observations:

• 3756.46 cm⁻¹: O-H stretch (primary amines).

• 2927.85 cm⁻¹: C-H stretch (alkanes).
• 1732.37 cm⁻¹: C=O stretch (carbonyl groups).
• 667.05 cm⁻¹: C-H bending vibrations.

Conclusion: FTIR confirms the presence of functional groups like hydroxyl, carboxyl, and
amines, indicating successful polymerization and biopolymer characteristics.

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 2. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)

To determine the crystalline or amorphous nature of the bioplastic.

Conditions: Operated at 40 kV and 20 mA using Cu Kα radiation.

Key Observations:
Semi-crystalline structure identified from distinct diffraction peaks. Crystallinity (37%)
attributed to starch polymer chains (amylose and amylopectin).

Conclusion:
The semi-crystalline nature ensures balance between strength and flexibility in the
bioplastic.

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 3. Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA)
Estimate changes in the mass of material as a function of temperature (thermal stability).

Conditions: Operated from 35°C to 400°C at a heating rate of 10°C/min.

Key Observations:
Initial mass loss or moisture loss, this typically occurs between 35°C and 150°C.
Decomposition Phases, where main weight loss often occurs around 200–400°C,
biopolymer undergoes thermal degradation, where the organic compounds in the
biopolymer are broken down into smaller volatile molecules.

Conclusion:
Thermal degradation of biopolymer at higher temperature (above 200°C).

1.5. Solubility Tes

To evaluate the resistance of bioplastic to dissolution in various solvents.

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 4. Solubility Test
To evaluate the resistance of bioplastic to dissolution in various solvents.

Procedure:

• Bioplastic pieces immersed in solvents: water, acetone, ammonia, acetic acid,

sulphuric acid, and ethanol.

Results:

• Insoluble: Water, acetone, acetic acid, ethanol.

• Partially soluble: Ammonia.
• Completely soluble: Sulphuric acid.

Conclusion:

• Insolubility in water and common solvents makes the bioplastic suitable for
practical applications like packaging.

5. Swelling Test

Procedure:

• Pre-weighed bioplastic samples soaked in water, chloroform, and methanol for 2

hours. Weight change recorded.

Observations:

• Minimal swelling in water. No significant swelling in chloroform and methanol.

Conclusion:

• Low swelling in solvents indicates structural stability, making the bioplastic

suitable for various applications.

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 6. Biodegradability Test

To assess the environmental friendliness of the bioplastic by determining its degradation

over time.

Procedure:

• 1.1 g of bioplastic buried 5 cm deep in soil. Soil moisture maintained to enhance

microbial activity. Weight and appearance recorded every 5 days for 15 days.

Observations:

• Day 5: Shiny, firm structure.

• Day 10: Brownish-black, slight brittleness.
• Day 15: Black, brittle, significant weight loss.

Conclusion:

• Weight reduction and brittleness indicate effective biodegradation, confirming the

bioplastic's eco-friendly nature.

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4. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK

The successful synthesis of biodegradable plastics from banana peels demonstrates the
feasibility of converting agricultural waste into eco-friendly bioplastics. The use of banana
peels, rich in cellulose, lignin, and starch, as a raw material for bioplastic production
showcases the potential of agricultural residues as sustainable feedstocks for biopolymer
synthesis. By integrating volatile fatty acids (VFAs) as a by-product from biohydrogen
production, this method enhances both the environmental and economic viability of the
bioplastic production process.

Key Findings and Current Status:

1. Bioplastic Synthesis from Banana Peels:

o Through the extraction of cellulose and starch from banana peels,
bioplastics were synthesized using traditional chemical methods. The
polymerization of these extracted components resulted in bioplastics with
promising characteristics.
o Characterization:
▪ FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of essential functional
groups, such as ester linkages and hydroxyl groups, critical for the
formation of bioplastic bonds.
▪ XRD analysis revealed the crystallinity of the bioplastics,
indicating their potential strength and stability.
▪ TGA provided insights into the thermal stability of the bioplastics,
essential for processing and real-world applications.
o The biodegradable nature of the bioplastics was confirmed through
biodegradability, swelling, and solubility tests, highlighting the material’s
potential to reduce plastic pollution and serve as a viable alternative to
conventional plastics.
2. Environmental and Economic Impact:
o By utilizing banana peels, an agricultural by-product, this bioplastic
production method supports waste valorization, reduces the dependency on
petroleum-based plastics, and promotes a circular economy.
o The project emphasizes the sustainability of the process, offering a dual
solution to managing agricultural waste while reducing the environmental
footprint of plastics.

28
In the next phase of the project, three distinct methods for bioplastic synthesis will be
explored:

1. Bioplastics from Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA):

o Biohydrogen Production and VFA Extraction: By using agricultural
waste, such as banana peels, to produce biohydrogen via anaerobic
fermentation, VFAs (such as acetic, butyric, and propionic acid) will be
generated as by-products.
o Polymerization of VFAs: These VFAs will be chemically converted into
bioplastics using esterification or polymerization techniques. This method
offers a sustainable, bio-based feedstock for producing biodegradable
plastics.

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 2. Bioplastics from Orange Peels:
o Extraction of Biomaterials: Similar to banana peels, orange peels will be
processed to extract cellulose, pectin, and other starches, which can serve
as raw materials for bioplastic synthesis.
o Polymerization: The extracted components will be subjected to chemical
processes, potentially involving cross-linking or esterification, to create
biopolymers. This approach will explore the specific potential of orange
peels as a sustainable source for bioplastic production.
3. Chemical Synthesis of Biopolymers:
o Direct Synthesis: In addition to using agricultural by-products, chemical
synthesis will be explored to directly produce bioplastics through methods
like polycondensation or ring-opening polymerization. By using renewable
chemicals or bio-based monomers, this process will enhance the versatility
and properties of the final bioplastic products.
o Optimization of Polymer Properties: The goal is to fine-tune the
mechanical, thermal, and degradation properties of the bioplastics for
various industrial applications, from packaging to medical use.

Characterization and Optimization:

Each of these methods will be characterized using techniques like FTIR, XRD, and TGA
to assess their chemical structure, crystallinity, and thermal properties. Additional
biodegradability, solubility, and swelling tests will be conducted to evaluate their eco-
friendliness and practical applicability.

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 4. REFERENCES
1. Quintero-Silva, M. J., et al. (2024). Polyhydroxyalkanoates Production
from Cacao Fruit Liquid Residues Using a Native Bacillus megaterium
Strain: Preliminary Study. Journal of Polymers and the Environment.
2. Karne, H. U., Gaydhane, P., Gohokar, V., Deshpande, K., Dunung, P., &
Bendkule, G. (2024) Synthesis of Biodegradable Material from Banana
Peel.
3. Mora Martínez, A. L., Yepes-Pérez, M., Carrero Contreras, K. A., & Zapata
Moreno, P. E. (2024). Production of Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-Co-3-
Hydroxyvalerate) by Bacillus megaterium LVN01 Using Biogas Digestate.
4. Arjun, J., Manju, R., Rajeswaran, S. R., & Chandhru, M. (2023). Banana
Peel Starch to Biodegradable Alternative Products for Commercial Plastics.
Department of Microbiology, Hindusthan College of Arts and Science,
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
5. Noorjahan, C. M., Nishra Banu, S., & Subhashree, V. (2022) Bioplastic
Synthesis Using Banana Peels and Its Characterization.
6. Kacanski, M., Pucher, L., Peral, C., Dietrich, T., & Neureiter, M. (2022).
Cell Retention as a Viable Strategy for PHA Production from Diluted VFAs
with Bacillus megaterium.
7. Jerlin Vinodh, Subasree P, Maushemi G, Sanju R. Bioplastic from Banana
Peel. IJARIIT, vol. 7, no. 1, (2021), ijariit.com.
8. Chandarana, J., & Sai Chandra, P. L. V. N. (2021). Production of Bioplastics
from Banana Peels. Department of Chemical Engineering, Anurag Group
of Institutions, Ghatkesar, Hyderabad, India.
9. Vu, D. H., Wainaina, S., Taherzadeh, M. J., Åkesson, D., & Ferreira, J. A.
(2021). Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by Bacillus
megaterium Using Food Waste Acidogenic Fermentation-Derived Volatile
Fatty Acids.
10. Gaonkar, M. R., Palaskar, P., & Navandar, R. (2018). Production of
Bioplastic from Banana Peels. Jawaharlal Nehru Engineering College,
Aurangabad, India.

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