Absorption Ability and Degradable of Thin Film From Orange Peel Waste

Abstract

Bioplastics are plastic derived from natural resources and they are bio-degradable entirely or partially. Fruit waste is supposed to be an undesirable matter and will be used as compost. The present work aimed to produce a thin film from fruit material, in converting the fruit-derived waste into useful material. The thin film was developed by film casting method using waste fiber from orange peel, glycerol, and corn starch. The thin film was characterized by water, oil absorption, and biodegradable properties. The fact, natural fibers that originate from the surface of the fruit are hydrophilic rather than oleophilic, so the thin film tends to absorb more water than cooking oil over 28 days of observation. The biodegradation rate of orange peel film is quickest for films with 50 wt.% of orange peel powder and slowest for films with 0% of orange peel powder. We concluded that these materials can be used for membrane and packaging applications. Therefore, this work aims to provide a promising bioplastic that will help the environment and be an alternative material to modern society.