Effect of thickness on the physicochemical properties of bioplastic composed of starch and hemicellulose, and the possibility of carrying seeds

• Grant number: 23/13016-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2023
• End date: March 24, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Chemistry of Macromolecules
• Principal Investigator: Michel Brienzo
• Grantee: Lucas La Scala
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisa em Bioenergia (IPBEN). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/22401-8 - Fruit-refinery: obtention processes, characterization methods and generation of products derived from residues of the fruitculture, AP.TEM
• Associated scholarship(s): 24/06791-4 - Evaluation of the physical-chemical properties of blended films (starch + hemicellulose) and packaging application, BE.EP.IC

Abstract

Contamination by plastics due to their non-biodegradable and accumulative nature is one of the main issues concerning the environment today. In order to reduce this contamination, the use of biodegradable plastics is proposed as an environmentally friendly alternative. The aim of the project in question is to evaluate the production of a starch-based bioplastic in a blend with hemicellulose, assessing seed transport. In addition to its biodegradation properties, the bioplastic can carry seeds and thus contribute to the dissemination of plants (of interest) in the environment. The films will be evaluated for their physical and chemical properties (thickness, opacity, water solubility, humidity and mechanical resistance). The films will be evaluated for biodegradation in soil and subsequent seed germination. As a result of this project, films will be produced and tested, with mechanical properties evidenced in relation to thickness, and biodegradable, evaluating their ability to carry seeds. In addition to spreading seeds in the environment, it could be used in cases where reforestation is needed