Starch-based biofoams reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose from banana stem: Hydrophobicity and Biodegradability

Abstract

Microcrystalline cellulose was isolated from the banana stem, an abundant but underutilized bioresource, by using three main steps, specifically bleaching, alkaline treatment and acid hydrolysis. The isolated MC was used to reinforce starch-based biofoams with different loadings of 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%. The result of contact angle measurement using the LB-ADSA method achieved remarkable increases of contact angle value as the MC loading increased from 0% to 6%. In addition, compared to starch-based biofoams, starch/MC composite biofoams showed improved biodegradability. The starch/MC composite biofoams displayed good hydrophobicity properties that can potentially represent a sustainable and green alternative for packaging and insulation materials.