COMPARISON OF THE FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF BIOPLASTIC MADE WITH CELLULOSE FROM PLANTAIN PEEL AND PURE CELLULOSE

This study investigates the chemical composition of cellulose microfibrils (CMF) extracted from plantain peel, evaluating its potential as a sustainable source of cellulose. The experiment focused on determining the moisture, ash, and cellulose content of the CMF obtained from plantain peel, with results indicating a moisture content of 35%, an ash content of 52%, and a cellulose yield of 21%. These findings suggest that plantain peel is a viable and cost-effective raw material for cellulose extraction, providing an alternative to conventional sources and promoting the use of agricultural waste for industrial applications. In the discussion, the high ash content is noted as a potential limitation, implying the need for further refinement to remove residual inorganic materials, which may affect the physical properties of the cellulose. The moderate cellulose yield and moisture levels indicate that CMF from plantain peel could be suitable for applications such as biodegradable packaging and composites. The study concludes that while plantain peel-derived CMF shows promise as a sustainable material, process optimization is necessary to improve purity and material performance. Recommendations include refining extraction methods to reduce ash content, conducting mechanical property testing to assess its suitability for industrial applications, and implementing moisture control techniques to enhance product stability. This research supports the potential role of plantain peel in sustainable material production, aligning with environmental and economic goals.