Biodegradable film from taro starch and gelatin with duck eggshell nano calcium filler (TS-G/DES nano calcium): Study chemical, physical, and mechanical properties

The environmental impact of plastic waste has driven the search for sustainable alternatives. This study investigates biodegradable films based on taro starch (TS) and gelatin (G), enhanced with duck eggshell nano calcium (DES nano calcium) as a filler. The goal is to improve the film’s mechanical, chemical, and barrier properties for potential use in food packaging. The biodegradable films were produced using the solution casting method with varying concentrations of DES nano calcium (0, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 %). The morphological structure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), functional groups were confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and mechanical properties such as tensile strength and elongation were tested. Water absorption, transparency, and thickness were also evaluated. The addition of 1 % DES nano calcium significantly enhanced the tensile strength (6.540 MPa), elongation, and water resistance, while maintaining good transparency and flexibility. FTIR results indicated improved hydrogen bonding and matrix density with DES nano calcium, leading to superior barrier properties. The study confirms that biodegradable films incorporating DES nano calcium have significant potential as eco-friendly alternatives for dry food packaging.