Biocomposite film properties of whey protein isolate/PVA-silica

• The incorporation of silica into the WPI/PVA matrix has been demonstrated to enhance the mechanical properties of the resulting biocomposite film. • Silica acts as a reinforcing filler, thereby improving the structural integrity and flexibility of the biocomposite film. • The addition of silica into biocomposite films has been demonstrated to enhance their thermal stability. The global prevalence of plastic packaging is challenging to biodegrade has led to a pressing environmental concern. This research aims to develop an environmentally friendly biocomposite film based on Whey protein isolate (WPI) and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) reinforced with silica. Preparation of biocomposite using casting with PVA 6 and 12 gr and silica 0–4 %. The experimental findings indicated 2 % silica mechanical strength (46.97 MPa), while the highest thermal stability was observed at 4 % with a mass loss of 75.80 %. SEM and FTIR analysis revealed silica distribution influenced matrix homogeneity.This research proposes a novel strategy for mitigating plastic waste.