Preparation and Characterization of Red Seaweed (Eucheuma cottonii)-Based Bioplastic Reinforced with Polyvinyl Acetate (PVAc)

Abstract

Conventional petrochemical-based plastic waste has become a serious environmental problem due to its resistance to decomposition and suboptimal management. This study aims to produce and characterize carrageenan-based bioplastic from red algae (Eucheuma cottonii) by examining the effects of varying concentrations of sorbitol as a plasticizer and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) as a reinforcement on mechanical properties, water resistance, and biodegradability. The study was conducted in several stages, first involving the extraction of red algae with 0.1N NaOH. The extraction product was then mixed with a plasticizer, reinforcement, and emulsifier to form a homogeneous mixture. After forming a homogeneous emulsion, the mixture was molded and oven-dried at 60°C for 12 hours. The results showed that increasing the sorbitol concentration decreased tensile strength but increased elongation and accelerated biodegradation. Conversely, adding PVAc increased tensile strength and water resistance but reduced elongation and slowed degradation. The resulting carrageenan-based bioplastic has the potential to serve as an environmentally friendly alternative with properties that can be tailored for sustainable applications.