BIOPOLYMER OBTAINED FROM MUSA SP. PEEL

Abstract

The present invention lies in the field of materials chemistry and relates to a biodegradable biopolymer obtained from banana peels (Musa spp.), designed as a functional and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic polymers. The invention addresses the technical problem of low structural stability, high solubility, and limited mechanical strength observed in biopolymers obtained from plant waste without adequate chemical modification. As a solution, a standardized process is proposed that integrates stages of thermal hydrolysis, controlled acid hydrolysis, neutralization, and the addition of plasticizers, resulting in a homogeneous, flexible, and thermoset polymer matrix. This biopolymer can be formed into films, coatings, or functional powders, and its properties can be adjusted according to its formulation.The resulting material exhibits good thermal resistance, stable mechanical behavior, UV absorption capacity, and the ability to incorporate antimicrobial or antioxidant additives. Its production process is reproducible, scalable, and compatible with circular economy principles, enabling applications in the agricultural, food, cosmetic, environmental, and pharmaceutical sectors.