Synthesis and Characterization of Bio-Based Polymer from Arrowroot Peels (Maranta arundinacea) and Plantain Peels (Musa Paradisiaca L.)

Abstract

This study investigates the development of bio-based polymers derived from plantain peels (Musa paradisiaca L.) (PPB) and arrowroot  peels (Maranta arundinacea) (APB), as well as their copolymers (COP), as sustainable alternatives to non-degradable synthetic polymers.  Biodegradable polymers offer unique physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical, and degradative properties, making them highly  relevant for environmentally friendly applications. In this work, PPB, APB, and COP were synthesized and characterized through physico- chemical analysis, including moisture content determination, soil burial degradability tests, and various instrumental techniques: X-ray  Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). By  varying glycerol content across samples (20, 15, 10, and 5 cm³), a reduction in moisture content was observed, with values ranging from  35.70% to 20.13%. A 30-day soil burial test revealed significant weight loss for PPB (100%), with moderate degradation for APB (2.17%)  and COP (1.51%). XRD analysis indicated an amorphous phase across all samples, while FTIR spectra confirmed characteristic functional  groups (OH, C-H, C=O, C=C, -CH3, and C-O) consistent with successful polymer formation. TGA results showed that thermal stability  decreased with glycerol content in the order of APB > PPB > COP. SEM images of samples with 5 cm³ glycerol displayed voids and cracks  in APB and PPB, whereas COP exhibited a smoother and more uniform surface, depicting enhanced interfacial interaction and  compatibility. These findings demonstrate that bio-copolymers COP offer increased moisture absorption and superior surface  characteristics and also enhance biodegradability, making it promising candidate for eco-friendly applications in industries where  sustainable and degradable materials are required.