Cellulose-Based Biopolymers from Banana Pseudostem Waste: Innovations for Sustainable Bioplastics

Alice Waithaka (), Sofia Plakantonaki, Kyriaki Kiskira (), Ann W. Mburu, Ioannis Chronis, Georgios Zakynthinos, John Githaiga and Georgios Priniotakis
Additional contact information
Alice Waithaka: Department of Manufacturing, Industrial and Textile Engineering, School of Engineering, Moi University, Eldoret P.O. Box 3900, Kenya
Sofia Plakantonaki: Department of Industrial Design and Production Engineering, University of West Attica, Campus 2, Thivon 250, Egaleo, 122 44 Athens, Greece
Kyriaki Kiskira: Department of Industrial Design and Production Engineering, University of West Attica, Campus 2, Thivon 250, Egaleo, 122 44 Athens, Greece
Ann W. Mburu: Department of Research, Technology and Innovation, Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), Nairobi P.O. Box 30650-00100, Kenya
Ioannis Chronis: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of West Attica, Campus 2, Thivon 250, Aigaleo, 122 44 Athens, Greece
Georgios Zakynthinos: Department of Public and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, Alexandras Avenue 196, 115 21 Athens, Greece
John Githaiga: Department of Manufacturing, Industrial and Textile Engineering, School of Engineering, Moi University, Eldoret P.O. Box 3900, Kenya
Georgios Priniotakis: Department of Industrial Design and Production Engineering, University of West Attica, Campus 2, Thivon 250, Egaleo, 122 44 Athens, Greece

Waste, 2025, vol. 3, issue 4, 1-28

Abstract: Plastic materials are widely used for packaging due to their versatility and availability. Global production, mainly from petrochemicals, is estimated at 380 million tons, increasing annually by 4%. Packaging plastics have the shortest lifespan and contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Current production, use, and disposal of these plastics harm the environment, hu-mans, and ecosystems. Microplastics, (plastics particles ranging from 1 µm to 5 mm) formed through degradation, accumulate in ecosystems and the human body, including the brain. Bioplastics and biodegradable polymers from biological sources are a sustainable alternative; however, most production still relies on food crops, raising concerns about food security and sustainability. Utilizing organic wastes reduces production costs, lessens pressure on food systems, and supports waste management efforts. Cellulose, an abundant natural polymer, offers strong potential due to biodegradability, availability, and mechanical properties. This review explores extracting cellulose from banana pseudostem waste for packaging, high-lighting extraction and conversion methods and characterization via FTIR, TGA, SEM, XRD, and mechanical testing. FTIR confirmed the effective removal of lignin and hemicellulose, XRD revealed increased crystallinity corresponding to Type I cellulose, SEM showed a roughened fiber surface after alkaline treatment, and TGA indicated high thermal stability up to 250 °C. The goal is eco-friendly packaging by promoting agrowaste use. Further research should improve performance and scalability of cellulose-based bioplastics to meet industry needs and compete effectively with conventional plastics.

Keywords: bioplastics; cellulose; dissolving grade pulp; banana pseudostem; packaging; agrowaste (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q16 Q18 Q2 Q20 Q23 Q24 Q25 Q28 Q3 Q31 Q38 Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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