Effectiveness of the Potential of Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peels in Bioplas

Abstract 

The researchers used an experimental design for this study. They aim to use orange peel waste as an ingredient to produce pectin, which produces biodegradable plastics. In addition, the researchers’ goal is to lessen the fruit waste level in the Philippines. Pectin, according to Cassimjee et al. (2020), is abundant in walls that surround growing and dividing cells, walls of cells in the soft parts of the plant, and in the middle lamella and cell corners. Studies show that pectin is a purified carbohydrate product obtained from the inner portion of the rind/peels of citrus fruits (Badge et al., 2017). Utilizing leftover orange peel material to make pectin-based bioplastic may result in long-term improvements that change waste management procedures and promote a circular economy. This work shows a dedication to resource efficiency and environmental care while emphasizing the importance of agricultural by-products in material science. This study establishes the foundation for future developments in biodegradable materials. As it is proven that both biodegradable and nonbiodegradable plastics still contribute to waste, it is still safer to use biodegradable plastics as they are made from natural ingredients and can disintegrate with lesser effects on our environment compared to nonbiodegradable plastics. 

Keywords: Orange peel waste, pectin; bioplastic, citrus fruits, agricultural