Potentiality of Banana (Musa Paradisiaca) Pseudotallo for The Manufacturing of Biodegradable Polymers

Abstract

The banana pseudostem, a part of the plant generally wasted after harvest, is revealed as a rich source of starch, a natural polysaccharide. This starch is a promising alternative for the creation of biodegradable polymers, as opposed to conventional polymers that rely on non-renewable resources derived from fossil fuels. The research focuses on analyzing the properties of starch extracted from banana pseudostems, highlighting its resistant starch content and its ability to generate gels and thicken liquids. These characteristics make it an ideal candidate for the production of polymers that can degrade efficiently in the environment, giving rise to products such as disposable cups, plates, bags and cutlery. These products not only represent an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastic products, but can also contribute to reducing the accumulation of conventional plastic in ecosystems. This research underscores the importance of sustainably harnessing natural resources to address problems related to plastic pollution and encourage more environmentally friendly practices in the polymer industry.