Exploring the Characterizations of Gelatin-Agar Bioplastics: An Eco-Friendly Alternative for Conventional Plastics

Abstract

In order to effectively combat the pervasive and worsening global crisis of plastic pollution, the integration of innovative and regenerable materials—characterized by their inherent biodegradability and compostability—as a sustainable substitute for petroleum-based plastics requires an exemplary shift. In this regard, bioplastics can be the best solution to mitigate the adverse impacts of conventional plastics. This research paper explores the potential of gelatin-agar bioplastic as a substitute for petroleum-based plastics. Agar is a polysaccharide which is used as a gelling agent, imparting mechanical strength to the bioplastic while gelatin is a protein which provides flexibility and structural integrity. Gelatin, agar, water, and plasticizer (glycerol) are combined with controlled heating, mixing, and solidification steps to create gelatin-agar bioplastic. After developing the bioplastic film, its biodegradability was tested, and it showed promising results. Almost 72% of a bioplastic sample was degrade by natural degradation process within 18 days observation. The bioplastic is transparent. The thickness of the bioplastic sample was in the range of 20 mm to 60 mm. The highest ultimate stress was .32MPa in tensile strength test experiment. The bioplastic films showed good water resistance behavior. The findings of the current study point to a wide variety of potential future uses and commercial applications.