Synthesis and Biodegradation Analysis of Polyvinyl Alcohol–Starch (PVA-ST) Biopolymer Films

Abstract

This study investigates the development and characterization of biodegradable bioplastic films composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), starch, and their composite blend, aiming to provide sustainable alternatives for food packaging applications. The films were synthesized using a casting method, incorporating glycerol as a plasticizer. Mechanical analysis revealed that the PVA-starch composite films exhibited a balanced combination of tensile strength and elongation, making them suitable for packaging purposes. Biodegradation studies were conducted using the bacterium Bacillus subtilis, known for its ability to produce biosurfactants. Results indicated that the PVA-starch composite films achieved approximately 70% biodegradation within 16–17 days, whereas conventional synthetic films showed negligible degradation. These findings underscore the potential of PVA-starch bioplastics as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastics in food packaging, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and its associated environmental impact.