Cellulose-Based Biopolymer Films from Pomelo, Saba Banana, and Carabao Mango Peel Wastes for Sustainable Packaging Applications
摘要
Plastic pollution remains a major environmental concern, driving interest in renewable, cellulose-based alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics. This study evaluates biopolymer films produced from peel wastes of Pomelo (Citrus maxima), Saba banana (Musa acuminata × balbisiana), and Carabao mango (Mangifera indica L.). Cellulose was isolated through alkali treatment, bleaching, and acid hydrolysis chemical treatments and processed into films via dip coating, which were subsequently characterized by morphology, chemical structure, and key physical properties. SEM analysis showed relatively uniform fiber networks, with banana-derived films exhibiting coarser fibers and pomelo and mango films presenting finer distributions. FTIR spectra confirmed cellulose-rich structures through characteristic 3330 cm−1 (O-H) and 2900 cm−1 (C-H) stretching bands. Among the samples, Saba banana films demonstrated the highest apparent viscosity (2.512 cP) and thickness (75 μm), indicating stronger film-forming behavior, while pomelo films showed balanced water uptake and dimensional stability. Mango-derived films exhibited lower viscosity and thinner profiles, reflecting differences in cellulose organization. The film thickness and viscosity varied across defined ranges rather than single-point values. In comparison with PVA, the biomass-derived films displayed comparable mechanical performance, lower water solubility, and enhanced biodegradability, with tensile strength values falling within the same order of magnitude. These findings highlight fruit peel wastes as viable, sustainable feedstocks for cellulose-based films with potential applications in eco-friendly packaging.