Obtención de películas plásticas biodegradables a partir de vainas de haba (Vicia faba) para el recubrimiento de frutas y verduras frescas

Abstract

The main objective of this research project is to obtain biodegradable plastic films from bean pods (Vicia faba) for coating fresh fruits and vegetables, for which cellulose was extracted by basic hydrolysis. The characterization of the cellulose was carried out, where pH 6.20 and humidity 4.64% were obtained as outstanding parameters. In addition, an infrared spectrum was carried out which found that the raw material is cellulose. The variables that generated the best cellulose extraction treatment was T6 at high speed or 120 seconds. Biodegradable plastic films were obtained by means of a factorial design 2 squared, in which four treatments were determined with three repetitions in each one of them, indicating that the TP2 with 2g of cellulose and 3g of plasticizer, presents better characteristics; with humidity of 0,674 %, permeability 9,75E-3 (mmg / m2h), solubility 47,317% and a degradation of 21,899%, 12,501% and 26,931% in a period of 30 days, in water, environment and soil conditions, according to the specifications for compostable plastics. Regarding the tensile properties, it was based on INEN 2635 (Test Method for the Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheets) presenting a tensile strength of 304,445 N / cm2 and elongation modulus of 154,433%. It is concluded that the bioplastic obtained complies with the parameters within the established standards and is suitable as a food coating. The study with the use of different plasticizers that increase the properties of the bioplastic is recommended.