Potential of Bitoon (Barringtonia Asiatica) Seed as Bioplastic

The Philippines, being one of the largest polluters in the world, looks for creative solutions. Researchers look into Barringtonia asiatica's Bitoon seed for bioplastic production. This study talks about the plastic pollution that ravages the environment. Key findings indicate that the Barringtonia asiatica is promising for bioplastic production, factors that influence biodegradation, and irreversible damage due to plastic pollution. This study suggests that it is crucial to find sustainable bioplastic alternatives, particularly in developing nations like the Philippines. Since Surigao City has many coastal areas, the researchers took advantage of this issue and utilized the Bitoon (Barringtonia asiatica) seed as a potential bioplastic to solve the problem. This research analyzes the gelatinization and viscosity of bioplastic from Bitoon seed starch, revealing an ideal temperature of 65°C for a thick, strong starch structure and a viscosity of 67°C. The bioplastic hardens in 7 days and also degrades in 7 days, with an average tensile strength of 1.06 N/mm; these represent the mean outcomes of the three trials of bioplastic making. This research into Bitoon Seeds starch bioplastic explains the characteristics of its high amylose content, gelatinization, and viscosity properties. Tensile strength in bioplastic demonstrates a sustainable, renewable, and strong alternative to plastic. Bitoon seed starch has come up as an eco-friendly plastic alternative, being renewable as well as biodegradable for plastic, and can help greatly in reducing waste and advancement in sustainability.