Mosambi (Citrus limetta) peel and Sago based biodegradable film: Development and characterization of physical, water barrier and biodegradation properties

The biodegradable film was developed in this study by utilizing Mosambi peel and Sago powder in various blends (0 to 100%). Sago starch was used as a co-biopolymer along with the addition of glycerol (5% v/v) and gum arabic (10% v/v). The developed film was characterized for the various Physico-chemical properties including thickness, moisture content, ash content, color, water solubility, and water absorption capacity. An increase in Sago starch concentration caused a significant increase in moisture content, water absorption, and solubility of the films. A better mechanical property was observed in Sample 5 (Sago 50% Peel 50%) which recorded the highest folding endurance and retraction ratio, signifying greater film strength. The developed film, kept for 15 days, showed 46.45 to 64.42% biodegradability in soil burial tests. Conclusively, both Mosambi peel and Sago at an equal ratio led to the development of biodegradable film with attributes suitable for the packaging material.