Comparative Physicochemical Characterization of some Biomass Wastes for Bio-plastic Production

The increasing environmental burden of petroleum-based plastics has accelerated the search for sustainable and biodegradable alternatives derived from renewable biomass. This study presents a comparative physicochemical, thermal, and structural characterization of selected agricultural wastes-cassava peels, plantain peels, orange peels, and sugarcane bagasse-to evaluate their suitability for bioplastic production. The samples were collected from local sources and processed through washing, drying, and into uniform particles. Standard analytical methods were used to determine moisture content, ash content, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and starch composition. Thermal stability was evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), crystallinity was assessed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), functional groups were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and surface morphology was examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that sugarcane bagasse exhibited the highest cellulose content (57.22 %), crystallinity index (59.3%), and thermal degradation onset (272.8 °C), indicating superior structural integrity and thermal resistance. Cassava peels demonstrated high starch content, supporting their suitability for thermoplastic starch-based bioplastics. Plantain and orange peels showed comparatively lower structural properties but possess potential as supplementary blending materials. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of key functional groups (–OH, C=O, and C–O), essential for polymer interactions, while SEM images revealed dense fibrous networks in sugarcane bagasse and cassava peels. Overall, the suitability ranking for bioplastic production was sugarcane bagasse > cassava peels > plantain peels > orange peels. The study highlights the potential of utilizing locally available agricultural residues for sustainable bioplastic development, supporting circular economy principles and waste valorisation strategies.