Development of Cassava pomace-based films and evaluation of their physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties

Abstract

The environmental pollution caused by conventional packaging materials like plastic and polythene has led to the exploration of biodegradable alternatives. Starch is a key component in developing such materials, but due to global hunger-related issues, starch is not suitable for use as a biodegradable packaging material. In the present study, the major industrial waste (Cassava pomace) of the cassava starch processing industry was effectively utilized to develop biodegradable films. The casting technique was applied to develop three packaging materials by combining different proportions of cassava pomace (CP) and plasticizer combinations. Developed films were examined for their characteristics including colour, thickness, density, moisture content, solubility, swelling index, mechanical properties, and microscopic properties. In contrast, concerning multiple aspects, each of the films demonstrated unique characteristics. The film with the lowest CP appeared to be thinner and lighter in colour; however, it tended to contain a greater amount of moisture. The lowest CP film exhibited an adhesive property that was well-suited for use as cling film. The intermediate CP film is distinguished by its superior mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elongation at break which is more suitable for packaging films such as biodegradable bags. Conversely, the swelling index and thickness of the highest CP film outperform both other films, suggesting that it may have the capacity to absorb higher moisture content. The scanning electron microscopic images showed a consistent surface for all three samples, but the cross-sectional images of the highest CP film displayed internal fractures that corresponded to the lowest mechanical properties and flexibility. Thus, the highest CP film is more suitable for packaging materials such as plates. These films can serve as a viable, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable alternative to conventional packaging materials.