Synthesis and characterization of keratin based biodegradable film from poultry waste using blended plasticizer of glycerol and sorbitol

The pervasive issue of environmental pollution from petroleum-derived plastics and mismanaged agricultural waste, particularly chicken feathers, necessitates sustainable solutions. This study addresses these challenges by synthesizing and characterizing biodegradable films from chicken feather keratin, cross-linked with mango seed starch, and plasticized using a glycerol-sorbitol blend. The primary objectives were to develop an eco-friendly alternative to plastic films and evaluate its properties. Keratin was efficiently extracted from waste chicken feathers, achieving a 78.8% yield, while mango seed starch exhibited low moisture (6.2%) and ash content (0.8%). Biodegradable films demonstrated notable properties, including reduced water solubility (24%), optimal density (1.68 g/ml), and high transparency (194.75%). Thermal analysis (TGA) revealed enhanced stability in glycerol-sorbitol plasticized biodegradable films, while XRD analysis indicated moderate crystallinity, balancing strength and flexibility. FTIR confirmed key functional groups essential for structural integrity. Discussions highlighted the critical role of plasticizer combinations in optimizing biodegradable film properties. The study concludes that keratin-starch biodegradable films present a sustainable, biodegradable alternative with potential applications in packaging and agriculture. Future research should focus on optimizing processing conditions and exploring additional natural additives to enhance performance and sustainability, contributing to reduced environmental impact.