Valorization of Plantain Peel (Musa Paradisiaca Var. Harton) Waste Through the Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles and Cellulose Microfibrils for Applications in Biodegradable Films

Cordova Pinchi H.; Murga Olaya G.; Ponce Alvarez S.; Avalos Ortecho E. · Journal of Natural Fibers (2026) · DOI: 10.1080/15440478.2026.2728338

Resumen

The growing demand for sustainable packaging has driven research into agro-industrial residues as valuable alternative sources of biopolymers. In this study, biodegradable films were developed through an integral valorization approach of Harton plantain (locally known as “plátano bellaco”) using the peel as a source of cellulose microfibers (CMF) and the pulp as a starch source for the polymeric matrix. Additionally, ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized via a green route using Harton plantain peel extract and incorporated as a functional antibacterial agent to evaluate their effect on film antimicrobial performance, further reinforcing the sustainable use of this agro-industrial residue. The films exhibited thicknesses ranging from 0.05 to 0.32 mm. The progressive increase of CMF significantly improved the mechanical and physicochemical properties: tensile strength increased from 10.5 to 35.2 MPa, elongation at break rose from 1.3% to 2.8%, and water solubility from 8.18% to 19.6%. Among the formulations, BP75 showed the best overall performance and was therefore selected for antibacterial testing. The progressive addition of ZnO NPs further enhanced activity against Staphylococcus aureus, resulting in a 24.1% increase in the inhibition halo. Overall, Harton plantain CMF and ZnO nanoparticles improve the mechanical, physicochemical, and antimicrobial properties of sustainable biodegradable packaging films.

Instituciones: Universidad de Lima