Fabrication and Evaluation of Biodegradable Plastics Based on Corn and Potato Starch

Abstract: The increasing environmental concerns related to synthetic plastics have spurred interest in biodegradable alternatives derived from renewable sources. This study focuses on the preparation and comparative analysis of biodegradable plastics synthesized from corn and potato starches. The bioplastics were developed through plasticization with glycerol and crosslinking with acetic acid. Their mechanical, thermal, and degradation properties were tested and analyzed. Results indicated that corn starch-based plastic exhibited superior solubility (11.6%) and biodegradability (complete degradation within 15 days), while potato starch-based plastic showed higher thermal resistance. these findings indicate the potential of this material as a viable alternative to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for various packaging applications.