Bioplastic Films Production From <i>Ulva lactuca</i> : Extraction, Characterization, and Environmental Protection Potential

ABSTRACT The widespread use of hydrocarbons‐based plastics has caused severe environmental pollution due to their non‐biodegradable nature, leading to contamination of aquatic environments and threats to marine life and human health. This study explored utilization of Ulva lactuca biomass for the production of bioplastic films as an alternative to conventional non‐biodegradable plastics. Ulvan , the primary polysaccharide component of U. lactuca , was extracted using both acidic and alkaline methods, with acidic extraction yielding better preservation of functional groups. Bioplastic films were developed using different Ulvan concentrations (1%, 3%, 5%) and characterized for their mechanical, thermal, and biodegradability properties. The bioplastic films containing 3% Ulvan demonstrated optimal performance, exhibiting a tensile strength of 34.4 MPa and an elongation at break of 15%. Thermal analysis revealed a glass transition temperature of 58.3°C. Biodegradability tests indicated 76.55% degradation after 5 days of soil burial, confirming environmental compatibility of the developed films. These findings suggest that U. lactuca‐ based bioplastic films offer a promising alternative to conventional plastics, particularly for short‐term packaging applications. This study contributes to the development of eco‐friendly packaging materials and provides a foundation for further research and potential industrial applications in sustainable plastic alternatives.