Degradation potential in aquatic environments of biofilms derived from banana peels (<i>Musa paradisiaca</i>)

Plastic pollution in aquatic environments poses a serious environmental challenge, demanding the implementation of sustainable and effective solutions.The aim of this study is to compare the biodegradation of biofilms in freshwater and saltwater.The biofilms were made from banana peel starch, using three formulations (F1, F2, and F3), which were subjected to degradation tests in controlled environments, simulating variations in temperature, pH, and the presence of microorganisms.Biofilms were prepared by drying a starch suspension, and then exposed to aquatic conditions for 5 days.Degradation was assessed through weight measurements, visual observations, and water solubility analysis.The results demonstrated significant degradation on the first day, suggesting that these biofilms could serve as a more sustainable alternative to conventional plastics in aquatic environments.The findings of this research highlight the potential of banana peel-based biofilms to mitigate plastic waste.Future studies should focus on optimizing their formulation and evaluating their feasibility for large-scale industrial production.