Physicochemical characterization of biodegradable polymers for the experimental production of disposable utensils

Abstract

Objective: to determine the physicochemical characteristics of biodegradable polymers obtained from potato (Solanum tuberosum), which would be the basis for manufacturing disposable utensils. Methodology: A physicochemical composition analysis of the starch samples was carried out at the Bioplastics Laboratory of the Universidad Nacional José Faustino Sánchez Carrión (UNJFSC). The following procedure was developed: a) Obtaining starch samples: discard potatoes of the Yungay variety were used. The potatoes were subjected to a milling process and direct hydrolysis was applied to separate the starch. b) Dehydration: the samples were dehydrated in an oven at 65°C for 24 hours. Subsequently, spectrophotometric analysis was performed to determine the percentage transmittance of the samples. Results: Some important components were obtained, such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and thermoplastic starch (TPS). In smaller proportions, polycaprolactone (PCL) was also obtained. These components are fundamental to the structure of bioplastics. Conclusions: Native starch exhibits higher clarity and higher transmittance values compared to acetylated starch. These differences influence the rheological properties of the thermoplastic, especially its elasticity, for film formation.