Prototype FunLastic: Eco-Friendly LDPE Plastic with pH-Sensitive Fungal Aspergillus niger Encapsulation System

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) waste is a type of plastic that is difficult to degrade and contributes to environmental pollution. Without proper intervention, LDPE waste is projected to reach 35.4 million metric tons by 2032. This study aimed to develop an environmentally friendly LDPE plastic system through an innovation called FunLastic (Fungi Plastic), which embeds pH-sensitive capsules containing Aspergillus niger spores within the plastic layer for controlled biodegradation. The innovation was developed through data analysis and prototyping. Based on secondary data, A. niger activity can reduce LDPE plastic mass by 4.41% in 28 days. Under laboratory conditions with 100% active spores, 1 gram of LDPE plastic degrades in ±1.8 years. With 50% spore effectiveness due to external factors, degradation takes ±3.5 years. Capsules were produced using ionotropic gelation with 2% sodium alginate and 0.1 M calcium chloride (CaCl₂), yielding stable 2–4 mm capsules. Each capsule contained approximately 1.4 × 10⁵ spores; eight capsules were used per treatment, totaling ±1.12 × 10⁶ spores. Spore release followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, beginning on day 3 and ending by day 10 under moist soil with pH 5–6. The controlled release system prevents mold overgrowth and maintains biodegradation effectiveness. FunLastic is designed as a degradable LDPE plastic alternative that preserves its mechanical strength during initial use while addressing plastic pollution through a self-activated, scientifically validated approach.