THE PHYSICAL–MECHANICAL, MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION, AND BIODEGRADABILITY EVALUATION OF BIOPLASTIC FROM MANGO PEEL

Barrera P.; Orizano-Ponce E.; Palma-Lozano D.; Laqui-Estaña J.; Cano D. · Revista Internacional de Contaminacion Ambiental (2026) · DOI: 10.20937/rica.55726

Resumen

The accumulation of non-degradable conventional plastics and their environmental impacts have driven the search for sustainable alternatives. In this study, bioplastic films were produced using mango peel extract (MPE) at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% (g/100 mL) to characterize their physical, mechanical, and morphological properties, as well as evaluate its biodegradability. Using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), it was demonstrated that the bioplastic prepared with 15% MPE stood out in physical properties (color, ΔE ≈ 10.87), mechanical properties (elongation: 77%; tensile and puncture strength: ≈ 2.65 MPa and 1.03 N), and morphological properties (surface uniformity and homogeneity). However, the bioplastic with 5% MPE exhibited greater biodegradability, achieving 57% decomposition in 28 days, which is faster than that of conventional plastics. It was determined that the incorporation of MPE improves both mechanical and morphological properties; however, higher MPE concentrations tend to decrease the biodegradation rate, which is relevant for applications and formulation design. These findings highlight the potential of mango peel-based bioplastics as viable ecological alternatives, with promising applications in various industrial sectors.

Instituciones: Universidad de Huánuco; Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán