Sustainable Bioplastic Production from Banana Peel Waste: Unveiling Antibacterial Potential and Environmental Impact

A variety of synthetic and semi-synthetic substances make up the polymer material known as plastic. Plastics are visually appealing, but their breakdown and disposal have created major problems. To address the contamination of the ecosystem by plastics, it is necessary to create an “eco-friendly” solution. The goal of this research is to demonstrate that the starch in banana peels (Musa acuminata) can be utilized to create biodegradable plastic as an alternative to traditional plastic. The successful incorporation of glycerol into the starch matrix was confirmed by structural analysis using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) analysis, which also revealed hydroxyl, carbonyl, and C-H stretching vibrations. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed a fibrous microstructure, which improved the bioplastic material’s mechanical properties. The elongation test was used to compare the biodegradable film with a synthetic plastic and a control film in order to ascertain the film’s strength. The degree of deterioration was assessed for each of the three types of film in the soil burial degradation test. The biodegradable film broke down more quickly. Banana peels’ antibacterial properties were assessed for use in subsequent bioplastic-based product manufacturing. The findings show that bioplastic made from banana peels can solve significant industrial issues, food packaging, boosting productivity such and bags, toys, and water bottles.