Assessing the degradability of biodegradable-packaging base material through the insertion of organic solid waste deriving from composting process

Resumen

The intensification of the use of plastic materials in recent decades has caused several environmental impacts, becoming direct incentives for research and development of alternatives that minimize the massive amount of plastics used by societies. In this context, so-called biodegradable materials emerge, with emphasis on starch-based compounds, which, although they have limited mechanical properties and low water resistance, allow the mixture with various reinforcing agents, in order to overcome the deficiencies for their application in larger scales without detracting from its focus on biodegradability. In this sense, the present study aimed to evaluate the biodegradability of a starch-based biopolymer, with the addition of different proportions of malt bagasse, this residue from the production process of beer; evaluating and monitoring parameters of the composting process of this mixture with organic solid waste. Biodegradation was determined from the visual assessment of the material, monitoring parameters such as pH, temperature, humidity and organic matter, being recorded in an electronic spreadsheet for descriptive analysis. The results obtained, when compared to the control composting unit, indicate a lower biological activity on the compost, consequently, a greater resistance to biodegradation. After three weeks of composting, it was difficult to identify the material and after four weeks, it was not possible to identify the biopolymer, indicating its biodegradation and incorporation into the substrate. It was observed that the material showed changes in its mechanical properties during composting. It is concluded that the material is totally biodegradable in all malt bagasse compositions, under composting conditions.