Optimizing the Production of Biodegradable Containers from Corn Husks Using Hot Mold Forming: Study on Temperature, Forming Time and Husk Arrangement

Corn husks are an abundant agricultural byproduct left over from the processing of animal feed.This byproduct holds the potential to create value-added products for farmers.The objective of this research is to utilize discarded corn husks by converting them into containers through hot mold forming.The variables studied include temperature, time, husk arrangement, and binder ratio.The testing process involved the following steps: setting the temperature at three levels-130C, 140C, and 150C; forming time at three levels-1 minute 30 seconds, 2 minutes, and 2 minutes 30 seconds; and arranging the corn husks in two ways: 1) using 3 mature husks with 6 young husks, and 2) using 6 mature husks.The binder ratio (water: starch) was set at 1:1 and 1:2.The mold used for forming had dimensions of 12x12x2.5 cm (W x L x H).After forming, the containers were tested for storage over a period of 1 month and were evaluated according to the community product standards 1557/2563.The optimal conditions for producing containers from corn husks through hot mold forming were a temperature of 140C, a forming time of 2 minutes, and the first husk arrangement method.The containers produced under these conditions were strong, durable, free from mold, well-formed, and stable.After a 1-month storage period, no mold was observed, and the containers remained strong and intact.However, after 3 months, mold was found on all containers made from corn husks under all conditions.