Namphonsane A.Suwannachat P.Chia C.H.Wongsagonsup R.Smith S.M.Amornsakchai T.Mahidol University2023-06-032023-06-032023-05-01Membranes Vol.13 No.5 (2023)https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/82936In this study, biodegradable starch film was developed from pineapple stem waste as a substitute for non-biodegradable petroleum-based films for single-use applications where strength is not too demanding. High amylose starch from a pineapple stem was used as the matrix. Glycerol and citric acid were used as additives to adjust the ductility of the material. Glycerol content was fixed at 25% while that of citric acid varied from 0 to 15% by weight of starch. Films with a wide range of mechanical properties can be prepared. As more citric acid is added, the film becomes softer and weaker, and has greater elongation at the break. Properties range from a strength of about 21.5 MPa and 2.9% elongation to a strength of about 6.8 MPa and 35.7% elongation. An X-ray diffraction study showed that the films were semi-crystalline. The films were also found to be water-resistant and can be heat-sealed. An example of a single-use package was demonstrated. A soil burial test confirmed that the material was biodegradable and completely disintegrated into sizes smaller than 1 mm within one month.Chemical EngineeringArticleSCOPUS10.3390/membranes130504582-s2.0-8516021244120770375