Mechanical Properties Of CalaSSAG: A Bioplastic Wrapper With Potential Antifungal Properties As An Alternative To Commercially Plastic Wrappers

This study focused on developing a biodegradable food wrapper CalaSSAG, made from bio-based materials such as calamansi peel powder, starch, sodium alginate, and glycerol. The research aimed on making an alternative to plastic packaging that causes pollution. Calamansi is responsible for antimicrobial and antifungal properties. An experimental design was used to test how durable and thick the CalaSSAG bioplastic wrapper was, using three different concentrations of calamansi peel powder, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Testing its thickness and tensile strength. The results showed that the 100% calamansi mixture made the wrapper (1.26 mm), while the 50% mixture had the highest tensile strength (0.165 MPa). However, the control group was stronger than the alternative experimental group in terms of tensile strength with a tensile strength of 3.33 MPa. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed that there is a significant difference in mean tensive strength among CalaSSAG bioplastic wrapper containing varying proportions of calamansi powder and commercially produced plastic wrapper. CalaSSAG was not as strong as the traditional control group, it showed to be flexible, biodegradable, and made from natural materials. It offers a safer, eco-friendly choice for food packaging. Future research is advised to test the antifungal properties of calamansi in the wrapper and its real-time application. CalaSSAG shows potential in reducing plastic pollution and waste.