Synthesis, Characterization, and MechanicalProperties of Biodegradable Polymers for EcoFriendly Packaging Applications

Abstract

The increasing global demand for sustainable packaging materials has intensified research into
biodegradable polymers as replacements for conventional petroleum-based plastics. This study investigates the synthesis, structural characterization, and mechanical performance of three biodegradable polymer systems Polylactic Acid (PLA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and a novel starch–PLA composite  developed for eco-friendly packaging applications. The materials were synthesized through convention polymerization,and melt-blending techniques and subjected to comprehensive physicochemical and mechanical testing. Structural characterization involved Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which confirmed successful polymer formation and revealed differences in crystallinity and morphological uniformity. Mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile strength, Young’s modulus, elongation-at-break, and impact resistance measurements. Results showed that PLA exhibited the highest tensile strength, PHB displayed superior thermal stability but brittleness, and the starch–PLA composite demonstrated improved flexibility and biodegradability but lower strength. The study concludes that biodegradable polymer blends can meet packaging requirements when mechanical strength, flexibility, and degradation rate are balanced according to intended use. These findings support the growing shift toward sustainable packaging systems and provide material insights for industrial-scale development of eco-friendly polymer alternatives.