INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IV, April 2025
www.ijltemas.in Page 621
Fabrication and Evaluation of Biodegradable Plastics Based on
Corn and Potato Starch
Dr. Samudrala Prasantha Kumari
Government Institute of Chemical Engineering, Visakhapatnam
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.140400069
Abstract: The increasing environmental concerns related to synthetic plastics have spurred interest in biodegradable alternatives
derived from renewable sources. This study focuses on the preparation and comparative analysis of biodegradable plastics
synthesized from corn and potato starches. The bioplastics were developed through plasticization with glycerol and crosslinking
with acetic acid. Their mechanical, thermal, and degradation properties were tested and analyzed. Results indicated that corn
starch-based plastic exhibited superior solubility (11.6%) and biodegradability (complete degradation within 15 days), while
potato starch-based plastic showed higher thermal resistance. these findings indicate the potential of this material as a viable
alternative to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for various packaging applications.
Key words: Biodegradable plastics, Starch-based polymers; Corn starch; Potato starch, Glycerol, Acetic acid, Plasticizer, Cross
linker, Sustainable materials, Bio-based plastics, Green packaging.
I. Introduction
The global dependence on synthetic plastics, primarily derived from petrochemicals, poses significant environmental challenges
due to their non-biodegradable nature. In 2007 alone, plastic consumption reached an estimated 260 million tonnes, reflecting an
unsustainable reliance on finite fossil fuel resources. Despite widespread recycling initiatives, only a minor fraction of plastic
waste is truly repurposed; the majority is incinerated or landfilled, contributing to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
To mitigate these issues, researchers and industries have turned their focus toward biodegradable alternatives that are sustainable,
cost-effective, and environmentally benign. Among the various candidates for bio-based plastic production, starch—a naturally
occurring polysaccharide found in many plants—has emerged as a promising raw material. However, native starch lacks the
mechanical and thermal robustness required for practical applications. Thus, it is often combined with plasticizers such as
glycerol and crosslinkers like acetic acid to enhance its properties and processability.
Biodegradable plastics derived from starch sources, such as corn and potato, offer multiple advantages including lower carbon
emissions, enhanced degradability, and reduced reliance on petroleum-based inputs. This study aims to synthesize biodegradable
plastics using corn and potato starches, and to evaluate their mechanical, thermal, and environmental characteristics. The ultimate
goal is to explore their potential as substitutes for conventional low-density and high-density polyethylene materials used in
packaging.
II. Materials and Methods
Materials
• Starch Sources: Corn starch (commercial grade) and potato starch (extracted in-lab)
• Plasticizer: Glycerin (Propan-1,2,3-triol)
• Crosslinking Agent: Vinegar (6% acetic acid solution)
• Solvent: Distilled water
Extraction of Potato Starch
Fresh potatoes were washed, peeled, and grated. The grated mass was submerged in warm water, agitated, and strained through
cheesecloth to separate the starch. This washing and filtration process was repeated until the rinsing water appeared clear. The
starch was allowed to settle, after which the supernatant was carefully decanted. The recovered starch was then dried using
different methods. The dried starch was then ground into fine powder and stored in airtight containers.
Preparation of Biodegradable Plastics
A standard formulation was used for both starch types. A mixture of 20 g starch, 40 mL distilled water, 10 mL vinegar, and 10
mL glycerin was heated with constant stirring. Once the mixture thickened and reached boiling, it was allowed to cook for five
additional minutes to ensure homogeneity. The resulting viscous material was poured into molds or cast on aluminum foil and
dried at ambient conditions or in an oven at 150°F for 1–2 hours.
Characterization and Testing
Tensile Strength Test:
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IV, April 2025
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Strips of bioplastic were subjected to tension using a retort stand. By applied force on sample to rupture the strip, reading of
tensile strength noted from UTM machine
Thermal Resistance Test
Plastic samples were immersed in water heated from 40°C to 100°C in 20°C intervals. Softening was visually observed after 10
minutes at each temperature.
Solubility Test
Samples were weighed and submerged in water for 7 days. After 7 days Final weights were recorded and calculate solubility of
each sample
Degradability Test:
Samples were buried in nitrogen-rich soil for 15 days. After the time period take the sample, how much mass degradation done
were analyzed by visual appearance
III. Results and Discussion
Mechanical Properties
Corn starch-based plastic exhibited higher tensile strength (2.4 × 10⁻⁸ kgf/cm²) compared to the potato starch-based variant (1.18
× 10⁻⁸ kgf/cm²). This suggests that the corn-derived polymer matrix provides better cohesion and structural integrity, making it
more suitable for applications requiring moderate strength.
Solubility Analysis
The water solubility of the corn starch plastic was 11.6%, higher than the 8.3% measured for the potato starch sample, suggesting
better compatibility with aqueous environments. However, increased solubility could also imply reduced resistance to water for
certain packaging applications.
Thermal Behavior
The potato starch-based bioplastic began to soften at 60°C, whereas the corn starch sample retained its form until temperatures
exceeded 60°C. This indicates superior heat resistance for the corn-based plastic, potentially making it more viable for
applications exposed to elevated temperatures.
Biodegradation Potential
After 15 days of burial in soil, the corn starch plastic had completely decomposed, while the potato starch plastic showed partial
degradation. The higher biodegradability of the corn-based plastic may be attributed to its more accessible polymer chains and the
efficiency of microbial breakdown pathways.
Table 1. Mechanical Properties of Bioplastics
Property
Corn Starch
Potato Starch
Tensile Strength (kgf/cm²)
2.4×10⁻⁸
1.18×10⁻⁸
Solubility (%)
11.6
8.3
Degradability (15 days)
Complete
Partial
Thermal Softening (°C)
>60
60
IV. Conclusion
The bioplastics developed using corn and potato starches demonstrate promising characteristics for eco-friendly packaging
applications. Corn starch-based plastic outperforms potato starch in terms of solubility, tensile strength, and biodegradability.
However, potato starch provides superior heat resistance. These findings support the feasibility of starch-derived bioplastics as
alternatives to conventional LDPE and HDPE plastics, particularly in single-use applications. Further research into hybrid
formulations with other natural or synthetic biodegradable polymers could enhance mechanical and barrier properties.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue IV, April 2025
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