Biodegradable Starch-Based Bioplastic from Chickpea: A Green Alternative to Conventional Plastics

Abstract

Currently, plastic pollution is a growing global issue due to its non-biodegradability, increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives such as bioplastics. This study explores the development of bioplastic films from chickpea starch using a three-step molding process. In the first step, starch is extracted from chickpeas. The second step involves hydrolysis and plasticization of starch with glycerol in different ratios. In the final step, the modified starch is blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in varying ratios to produce the bioplastic films. The optimal formulation, CPS 1:2:2, exhibited strong performance (4.1 MPa TS, 281% EA, and 70.1° WCA). The developed films exhibited improved physicochemical, mechanical, barrier, and chemical resistance properties, including enhanced acid and alkaline stability. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed the formation of a crosslinked polymer network and its biodegradation, indicating the environmental sustainability of the developed bioplastic.