Biodegradable and compostable packaging material and method thereof

Abstract

A biodegradable packaging material and method thereof is provided. The biodegradable packaging materials includes molded items, flexible sheets, and films, derived from agricultural and industrial residues such as used cooking oil, tamarind kernel seed waste, and bamboo dust. The agricultural and industrial residues are formulated using natural binders like cassia gum and xanthan gum, processed through microwave-assisted reactive blending, and converted into bio-pellets via twin- screw extrusion. The biodegradable packaging material is customizable in transparency, fragrance, and flavor, making the biodegradable packaging material ideal for food packaging, consumer goods, and nutraceuticals. The disclosure offers a sustainable, cradle-to-cradle solution, reducing dependency on fossil-based plastics.

Description

BIODEGRADABLE AND COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING MATERIAL AND METHOD THEREOFFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of sustainable packaging materials. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to a biodegradable and compostable packaging material and method thereof.BACKGROUND

[0002] The global packaging industry heavily relies on plastics derived from fossil fuels due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. However, this dependence has resulted in a critical environmental challenge as most plastic packaging materials are non-biodegradable, leading to significant accumulation of plastic waste. According to reports from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), only 14-18% of plastic waste is formally recycled, leaving the majority to be incinerated, landfilled, or dispersed into the environment. This poses long-term risks to ecosystems, with plastics taking hundreds of years to degrade and often breaking down into microplastics that contaminate soil and water.

[0003] One of the primary limitations of traditional packaging is its multilayer structure, which typically includes materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and aluminum foil. These multilayered films are difficult to recycle due to the different melting points and chemical incompatibilities of their components. Additionally, single-use molded items like bottle caps and closures made from polypropylene or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) also contribute significantly to the growing plastic waste crisis. As these items are used for short periods and often disposed of improperly, they exacerbate the environmental burden. For example, a ready-to-eat food packet requires a high water barrier and aroma barrier that are attained with a 12-24 micron met-PET or met-BOPP layer. Additionally, it requires an LDPE extrusion coating / film (30-50 GSM) for the purpose of heat sealing and forming closed sachets / pouches. These packaging materials are used for a short period of time and disposed in landfill. These are non-recyclable and non-compostable.

[0004] Efforts have been made to address these challenges through paper-based and monomaterial plastic packaging. While paper-based solutions are considered environmentally friendly, they have inherent limitations in barrier properties, such as resistance to water vapor, oxygen, and aroma transmission. These deficiencies make them unsuitable for packaging perishable goods and processed foods that require extended shelf life. Similarly, mono-material plastic packaging still relies on fossil-based raw materials and lacks the necessary infrastructure for efficient end-of-life recycling, reducing its overall sustainability.

[0005] The increasing focus on sustainability and circular economy principles has prompted the exploration of biodegradable materials as an alternative to conventional plastics. While biodegradable packaging options such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) have emerged, they remain expensive to produce and often require industrial composting facilities for effective decomposition. Moreover, many biodegradable materials do not provide adequate mechanical strength or barrier properties for widespread application in food and consumer goods packaging. This has limited their adoption and impact on reducing plastic waste.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for packaging materials that are not only biodegradable and compostable but also derived from renewable resources.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0007] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide biodegradable and compostable packaging materials that are derived from renewable agricultural and industrial residues.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to develop packaging materials with enhanced barrier properties.

[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for preparing the biodegradable packaging material.SUMMARY

[0011] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that is further described below in the detailed description section. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0012] Aspects of the present disclosure relates to sustainable packaging materials. The disclosure pertains to agro-based biopolymer compositions derived from agricultural and industrial residues and their use in the manufacture of biodegradable and compostable packaging products. The disclosure focuses on the preparation of agro-based pellets and their conversion into injection-molded articles, thermo-formable trays, and blown or cast films suitable for packaging food, nutraceuticals, and consumer goods, as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil-derived plastic packaging materials.

[0013] Accordingly, in an aspect, the present disclosure provides a biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste, including 5 to 60% of lipid moieties; 5 to 60% of polysaccharides; 10 to 30% polylactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof; and 1 to 20% of optional additives.

[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing biodegradable packaging material, including steps of:a) mixing 5 to 60% of lipid moieties and 5 to 60% of polysaccharides derived from agricultural or industrial residues, 10 to 30% polylactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof, and 1 to 20% of optional additives to obtain a mixture;b) binding the mixture using a microwave-assisted reactive blending;c) extruding the bonded mixture using a twin-screw extruder to obtain ready-to-use agro-pellets; andd) molding the agro-pellets into flexible sheets, trays, or injection-molded items to obtain the biodegradable packaging material.

[0015] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides an article produced from a biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste with a thickness ranging from 20 microns to 2 mm, the article is biodegradable and compostable in nature.

[0016] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary method for preparing biodegradable packaging material, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a) agro-pellets, and b) molded biodegradable packaging material, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates FTIR of the biodegradable packaging material, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates DSC of the biodegradable packaging material, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates degradation graph of the biodegradable packaging material and cellulose, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates seed germination tests with rice and mung beans, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount ofdetail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0025] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0026] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0027] In some embodiments, numbers have been used for quantifying weight percentages, ratios, and so forth, to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention and are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0028] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0029] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0030] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”

[0031] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[0032] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0033] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified.

[0034] The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles and aspects of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the disclosure.

[0035] It should also be appreciated that the present invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a system, a method or a device. In this specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as processes. In general, the order of the steps of the disclosed processes may be altered within the scope of the invention.

[0036] The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0037] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements a, b, and c, and a second embodiment comprises elements b and d, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of a, b, c, or d, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0038] Matolutions ® protect the bio-pellets disclosed in the present disclosure under the name of Good-Natured™ Granules.

[0039] The terms “bio-pellets” or “agro-pellets” or “pellets” or “biopolymer granules” are used herein interchangeably with same meaning throughout the specification.

[0040] The terms “biodegradable packaging material” or “biodegradable and compostable packaging material” or “material” or “sample” are used herein interchangeably with same meaning throughout the specification.

[0041] Aspects of the present disclosure relates to sustainable packaging materials and, more particularly, to biodegradable and compostable molded items, flexible sheets, and films derived from agricultural and industrial residues. The disclosure encompasses eco-friendly alternatives to conventional fossil-based plastics for use in food packaging, consumer goods, and nutraceutical applications. The disclosure involves development of bio-pellets formulated from lipidic and polysaccharide-rich waste materials, bound with natural binders, and enhanced with antimicrobial and barrier properties, providing a sustainable, cradle-to-cradle solution for packaging systems.

[0042] Accordingly, in an aspect, the present disclosure provides a biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste. The biodegradable packaging material includes 5 to 60% of lipid moieties, 5 to 60% of polysaccharides, 10 to 30% poly lactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof, and 1 to 20% of optional additives. The disclosure encompasses eco-friendly alternatives to conventional fossil-based plastics for use in food packaging, consumer goods, and nutraceutical applications. The biodegradable packaging material is free from petroleum-derived polymers, bisphenol-A (BP A), phthalates, and other synthetic toxic additives typically present in conventional plastic materials.

[0043] In various embodiments, the lipid moieties are extracted from used cooking oil. The polysaccharides are extracted from tamarind kernel waste, the tamarind kernel powder is derived from the seed, a by-product of a tamarind pulp industry. The tamarind seed contains a variety of nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, fibers, and lipids. The tamarind seed is accessible in a variety of forms. The tamarind seed can also be purchased dry, ground, or powdered. Xyloglucan is a major polysaccharide component found in tamarind kernel powder. Xyloglucan can perform as a potential film forming polymer. Xyloglucan is applied as a biopolymer blend with lipid polyester.

[0044] In various embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material further includes natural fragrances or flavours selected from Eugenol from clove oil, Limonene from citrus peels, and Vanillinbut not limited to, to mask or enhance the odour of the raw materials.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the optional additives comprises inorganic fillers and organic fillers. The inorganic fillers are selected from a group consisting of mica, clay, silica, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, titanium dioxide, talc, alumina and a combination thereof. The organic fillers are selected from a group consisting of bamboo dust, seeds, wood dust, native starch granules, pre-gelatinized and dried starch, rice bran wax, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, guar gum, gellan, pectin, agar, shellac, sisal fiber, flex fiber and a combination thereof.

[0046] In one embodiment, the organic fillers are binders including cassia gum, xanthan gum and guar gum but not limited to. Cassia gum is a potential material for forming biopolymer film. Cassia gum is extracted from cassia seed and contains a high molecular weight polysaccharidescomposed of galactomannan. These galactomannan can also be obtained from endosperm portions of legumes such as guar, locust bean, tara, honey bean, flame tree, sesbania etc. Cassia gum is commercially available as was directly bought from Chem-Pro Solutions.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the optional additives can be inorganic fillers, organic fibers or powders that reduce the cost of the biodegradable packaging material while maintaining the required performances in terms of process phase, use-phase, and end-of-life phase. Examples include inorganic geological materials like mica, clay, silica, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, titanium dioxide, talc, alumina etc. Organic materials include bamboo dust, seeds, wood dust, native starch granules, pre-gelatinized and dried starch, rice bran wax, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, guar gum, gellan, pectin, agar, shellac, sisal fiber, flex fiber etc. The amount of fillers added to the biopolymer blends (formulation of the biodegradable packaging material) vary depending upon the desired properties of the final product in terms of tensile strength, toughness, flexibility, and cost being the principle criteria for determining the amount of filler to be added during melt extrusion processing. In order to substantially counter the high cost of biopolymers, the filler concentration in the present disclosure is included in an amount greater than about 10% by weight of the overall composition, preferably in an amount greater than about 15% by weight, more preferably in an amount greater than about 20% by weight, most preferably in an amount greater than about 30% by weight of the overall composition. The fibrous fillers preferably have a high aspect ratio i.e., length to width ratio at least 8:1 to impart high strength to the final product (films and trays).

[0048] In various embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material includes a residual moisture of 10 to 30%. In one embodiment, the biodegradable packaging material includes the residual moisture preferably of 15 to 22%.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material comprises 0.1 to 0.5 wt% of silver-based nanomaterials for enhanced water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR), and 0.2 to 0.3 wt%essential oils to impart antibacterial properties. The essential oils are selected from a group consisting of clove oil, cinnamon oil, or tea tree oil. The essential oils also helps in extending shelf life of packaged contents.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material comprises one or more biomass-derived plasticizers selected from a group consisting of epoxidized triglyceride vegetable oils, bio-succinic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and chemically modified derivatives thereof.

[0051] In various embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material comprises a density ranging from 1.05 to 1.7 g / cm3, and a Melt Flow Index ranging from 4 to 28 g / 10 min.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the biodegradable packaging material is used for preparing molded items including caps, closures, and thermoformed trays but not limited to. The biodegradable packaging material is used to package food items, nutraceuticals, or consumer goods, including but not limited to chocolates, savory snacks, cookies, biscuits, jellies, and nuts.

[0053] In one embodiment, the biodegradable packaging material’s barrier properties meet or exceed the performance of conventional multilayer plastic films for water vapor, oxygen, and aroma barriers.

[0054] In one embodiment, the biodegradable packaging material has Melt Flow Index (MFI) (ASTM DI 238 @ 190°C / load of 2.16 kg) ranging from 4 to 28 g / 10 min. The MFI ensures that the biodegradable packaging material is easily processable during molding or extrusion, with a consistent flow behavior suitable for standard manufacturing processes.

[0055] In another embodiment, the biodegradable packaging material has density (ASTM D792 @ 23°C) ranging from 1.05 to 1.7 g / cm3. The density indicates a robust and durable material that balances flexibility with strength for various packaging applications.

[0056] In another embodiment, the biodegradable packaging material has Tensile Strength (ASTMD638) >11.5 MPa, Izod Impact (Notched) (ASTM D256) >7.3 J / m, and TGA (Percentage of residue at 540°C) <0.92. These characteristics exhibits that the biodegradable packaging material not only provides eco-friendly, sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic but also possesses mechanical and thermal properties suitable for commercial packaging applications, meeting or exceeding the performance standards required for packaging food, consumer goods, and nutraceuticals.

[0057] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing biodegradable packaging material.

[0058] Figure. 1 shows a flow chart of the method for preparing biodegradable packaging material, including steps of:a) mixing 5 to 60% of lipid moieties and 5 to 60% of polysaccharides derived from agricultural or industrial residues, 10 to 30% polylactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof, and 1 to 20% of optional additives to obtain a mixture;b) binding the mixture using a microwave-assisted reactive blending;c) extruding the bonded mixture using a twin-screw extruder to obtain ready-to-use agro-pellets (shown in Figure 2a); andd) molding the agro-pellets into flexible sheets, trays, or injection-molded items (shown in figure 2b) to obtain the biodegradable packaging material.

[0059] In an embodiment, the binding at step b) is carried out at 20 to 100 rpm. The micro wave-assisted reactive blending is carried out at various temperatures such as Feed Throat 30°C, Feed Zone 2 : 120°C, Melting Zone 3 : 160°C, Metering Zone 4: 175°C, and Die at 180°C.

[0060] In one embodiment, the microwave-assisted reacted blending at step b) induces reactive interactions between lipidic moieties and polysaccharides to form a stable biopolymer matrix.

[0061] In one embodiment, the twin-screw extruder has 3 mm diameter holes, 4 Die holes, and strand type die.

[0062] In one embodiment, molding at step d) includes injection molding, film blowing, sheet extrusion, or thermoforming.

[0063] The resultant biodegradable packaging material possesses barrier properties fine-tuned using silver-based nanomaterials and antimicrobial properties imparted by essential oils. The essential oils are selected from clove oil, cinnamon oil, or tea tree oil. The essential oils also helps in extending shelf life of packaged contents.

[0064] In various embodiments, the bio-pellets are transparent or opaque, depending on formulation or composition of the biodegradable packaging material.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the bio-pellets are extruded with a density ranging from 1.05 g / cm3to 1.7 g / cm3.

[0066] In certain embodiments, the flexible sheets or trays are prepared with a thickness ranging from 20 pm to 2 mm.

[0067] In one embodiment, the bio-pellets are substantially biodegradable based on the degradation characteristics of each component derived from agricultural and industrial residues. In one embodiment, the agro-pellets consists of natural, preferably purely vegetable ingredients including lipids, polysaccharides, and natural gums.

[0068] In a specific embodiment, the agro-pellets have a solid composition consisting of 40-50% lipidic moieties from used cooking oil, 40-50% polysaccharides from tamarind kernel seed, 0-20% optional additives and 15-22% residual moisture.

[0069] In an embodiment, the biopolymer granules exhibit complete disintegration and mineralization in accordance with ISO 17088 standards, thereby outperforming conventional polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS) granules, which are non-biodegradable under similar environmental conditions. The resulting biopolymer granules contain no petroleum derived monomers, no micro plastic-forming additives, and produce no persistent micro plastics during degradation, distinguishing it from conventional plastics that fragment into micro plastics. The biopolymer granules possess a melting or softening temperature suitable for injection moulding and compression moulding, enabling direct replacement of conventional PP / HDPE granules without requiring major equipment modification. The biopolymer granules are home-compostable, decomposing within 170 days at ambient conditions, while petroleum-based plastics remain intact for decades. The biopolymer granules are non-toxic, food-safe, and free from endocrine- disrupting chemicals, unlike conventional BPA-based polycarbonates and phthalate plasticized polymers. The carbon footprint of the granules is significantly lower than petroleumbased plastics due to the utilization of renewable agricultural residues and biomass, contributing to circular-economy and waste-valorization objectives.

[0070] In various embodiments, the molded sheets and films may comprise a single layer or multiple layers as desired. The molded sheets and films may be formed by mono- and co-extrusion, casting and film blowing techniques. As they are thermoplastic, the sheets can be post-treated by heat sealing to join two ends together to form sacks, pockets, pouches, and the like. In one embodiment, the molded sheets or films can be laminated onto existing sheets or substrates.

[0071] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides an article produced from a biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste with a thickness ranging from 20 microns to 2 mm. The article is biodegradable and compostable in nature.

[0072] In various embodiments, the article is selected form a group consisting of injection-molded caps, closures, blown films, thermoformed trays, sachets, pouches, and sheets. The article is suitable for packaging processed food, nutraceuticals, or consumer goods. The packaged or consumer goods are selected from chocolates, savory items, baked goods, biscuits, cookies, jellies, snacks, food sticks, nuts, or ready-to-eat food products. In one embodiment, the article replaces conventional multi-layer plastic laminates, aluminum foil-based structures, or fossil-derived caps and closures.

[0073] While the foregoing description discloses various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope of the disclosure. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.EXAMPLES

[0074] The present invention is further explained in the form of the following examples. However, it is to be understood that the foregoing examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0075] The agro-based pellets were derived from agricultural and industrial residues consisting of lipids and polysaccharides predominantly. The biopolymer (biodegradable packaging material disclosed by the present disclosure), for example formed by the reactive blending of lipid moieties like used cooking oil (10%) with biodegradable polysaccharides (40%) like those derived from tamarind wastes. The biopolymer (biopolyester PLA 30%) was filled using natural fillers like bamboo dust (20%) and the bio-pellet preferably is completely (or substantially completely) biodegradable, for example based on the biodegradability of each of the components derived from agricultural and industrial wastes. The agro-based pellets were formed at 20-100 rpm using a microwave-assisted reactive blending (Feed Throat 30°C, Feed Zone 2 : 120°C, Melting Zone 3 : 160°C, Metering Zone 4: 175°C, Die at 180°C). These were extruded using a twin-screw extruder (3 mm diameter holes, 4 Die holes, Strand type die) to obtain ready-to-use agro-pellets for subsequently making sheets or thermoformed into pouches, sachets or trays.from tamarind seed

[0076] Microwave pre-treatment was performed for 30s - 150 s to remove the tamarind seed coat that accounted for 20-30% of the total seed weight. The uncoated seed was grinded to make tamarind kernel powder. The tamarind kernel powder was subjected to fat removal process, where hexane or isopropanol was used as the solvents. The insoluble protein components were removed from the defatted powder using alcohol precipitation technique. The remaining components that were isolated from the supernatant contained Xyloglucan polysaccharides. These were pulverized and kept in hot-air oven before further use.

[0077] The removal of seed coat was achieved for 10 g sample using a microwave pretreatment for 120 s followed by milling the powder using a pin mill, defatting with hexane (powder / solvent ratio 1:5) for 300 s, and extraction using 80% ethanol in the alcohol precipitation process before hot air drying at 80°C for 8 hr. The yield of Xyloglucan obtained was 32%.

[0078] The removal of seed coat was achieved for 10 g sample using a microwave pretreatment for 90 s followed by milling the powder using a pin mill, defatting with hexane (powder / solvent ratio 1:10) for 300 s, and extraction using 90% ethanol in the alcohol precipitation process before hot air drying at 80°C for 8 hr. The yield of Xyloglucan obtained was 28%.

[0079] The removal of seed coat was achieved for 10 g sample using a microwave pretreatment for 90 s followed by milling the powder using a pin mill, defatting with hexane (powder / solvent ratio 1:5) for 300 s, and extraction using 95% ethanol in the alcohol precipitation process before hot air drying at 80°C for 8 hr. The yield of Xyloglucan obtained was 31%.Example 3: Characterization studies of the biodegradable packaging material

[0080] The biodegradable packaging material has been subjected to certified biodegradability testing in accordance with ISO 17088:2021, as performed by the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET)-Laboratory for Advanced Research in Polymeric Materials (LARPM; Report No. 01841, dated 14.08.2025.1. Specific migration of heavy metals

[0081] The biodegradable packaging specimen (details in table 1) has specific migration of heavy metals well under the FSSAI compliance requirement. The test result for specific migration was performed at 40°C for 10 days using 3% acetic acid as a stimulant. The results are given in tables below. Moreover, the specimen of the present discloure passed overall migration test, specific migration of antimony, and specific migration of DEHP {Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate / CAS No. 0000117-81 -7} . The test ensures that the packaging material is safe for consumers and complies with food contact regulations.

[0082] Table 1 enlists material (specimen) details.

[0083] Table 2 enlists results for overall migration.

[0084] Table 3 enlists results for specific migration of antimony.

[0085] Table 4 enlists results for specific migration of DEHP {Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate / CAS No. 0000117-81-7}.2. Analytical Methods

[0086] Biodegradation testing was conducted under controlled aerobic composting conditions using vermicompost and municipal garden waste as the compost matrix. The reference controlsubstance was pure cellulose, and three replicates were maintained for all sample and control vessels. The reaction mixture was maintained at 58 ± 2 °C for 180 days in 3 L vessels. Analytical techniques included Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and standard compost laboratory protocols for monitoring pH, heavy metal content, disintegration, and plant growth effect. The results are as follows:

[0087] Material Identification: FTIR (shown in Figure 3) and DSC (shown in Figure 4) confirmed the sample comprises primarily biopolyester and starch polysachharides, showing characteristic functional group peaks associated with these polymers. This is supported by characteristic FTIR peaks: - OH stretch at 3283 cm ', - CH stretch at 2853-2923- C=O stretch at 1747 cmand - C-0 at 1041-1180 cm This confirms the formulation is a biobased polymer composite (biodegradable packaging material).

[0088] Biodegradation Rate: The material exhibited a mean percentage biodegradation of 91.85% relative to the cellulose reference (shown in Figure 5), surpassing the ISO 17088 requirement of >90% within 180 days of composting.

[0089] Disintegration: After 12 weeks, less than 10% of the original dry mass (particles >2 mm) remained, meeting the ISO 17088 criterion for physical disintegration.

[0090] Toxicity (Ecotoxicity): Seed germination tests with rice and mung bean (shown in Figure 6) revealed >90% germination rates in both the control and compost containing the test material, indicating no phytotoxic effect and demonstrating compost safety. Rice (Monocotyledon): 98.5% germination, Mung (Dicotyledon): 97.8% germination.

[0091] Heavy Metals: Levels of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, and zinc in the degraded material remained well within safe limits prescribed by ISO 17088. Example: As = 3.07 mg / kg (Limit: 10 mg / kg)Cr = 43.70 mg / kg (Limit: 50 mg / kg)

[0092] Other Observations: pH remained neutral to slightly alkaline before and after composting (range: 7.2-7.7). Throughout testing, the compost exhibited appropriate moisture content, a gradual color fade indicative of ongoing biodegradation, and no abnormal fungal or offensive odor development.

[0093] Based on the above observations, the tested sample (biodegradable packaging material) conforms to all requirements for compostable plastics as specified in ISO 17088:2021. The above test results confirm the suitability of the biodegradable packaging material to compostability and safety in soil and plant environments.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0094] The biodegradable and compostable packaging material is substantially free of fossil derived plasticizers, synthetic polymers and petroleum-based compounds.

[0095] The biodegradable and compostable packaging material reduces environmental pollution caused by conventional fossil-based plastics.

[0096] By using agricultural and industrial residues such as used cooking oil, tamarind waste, and bamboo dust, the disclosure minimizes waste and promotes the efficient use of renewable resources, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based materials.

[0097] The packaging materials exhibit excellent mechanical and barrier properties, ensuring durability and extended shelf life for perishable goods.

[0098] The production of bio-pellets using microwave-assisted blending and extrusion is economical and scalable, making it feasible for widespread adoption in the packaging industry without requiring significant changes to existing manufacturing processes.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste, comprising:5 to 60% of lipid moieties;5 to 60% of polysaccharides;10 to 30% polylactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof; and1 to 30% of optional additives.

2. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lipid moieties and the polysaccharides are extracted from used cooking oil, tamarind kernel waste, rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, cereal straw, corn residues, and fruit / vegetable processing waste.

3. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the optional additives comprises inorganic fillers and organic fillers; wherein the inorganic fillers are selected from a group consisting of mica, clay, silica, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, titanium dioxide, talc, alumina and a combination thereof; wherein the organic fillers are selected from a group consisting of bamboo dust, seeds, wood dust, native starch granules, pre-gelatinized and dried starch, rice bran wax, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, guar gum, gellan, pectin, agar, shellac, sisal fiber, flex fiber and a combination thereof.

4. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biodegradable packaging material comprises a residual moisture of 10 to 30%.

5. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biodegradable packaging material comprises 0.1 to 0.5 wt% of silver-based nanomaterials for enhanced water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR), and 0.2 to 0.3 wt% essential oils to impart antibacterial properties.

6. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biodegradable packaging material comprises one or more biomass-derived plasticizers selected from a group consisting of epoxidized triglyceride vegetable oils, bio-succinic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and chemically modified derivatives thereof.

7. The biodegradable packaging material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biodegradable packaging material comprises a density ranging from 1.05 to 1.7 g / cm3, and a Melt Flow Index ranging from 4 to 28 g / 10 min.

8. A method for preparing biodegradable packaging material, comprising steps of:a) mixing 5 to 60% of lipid moieties and 5 to 60% of polysaccharides derived from agricultural or industrial residues, 10 to 30% polylactic acid (PLA) and blends thereof, and 1 to 30% of optional additives to obtain a mixture;b) binding the mixture using a microwave-assisted reactive blending;c) extruding the bonded mixture using a twin-screw extruder to obtain ready-to-use agro-pellets; andd) molding the agro-pellets into flexible sheets, trays, or injection-molded items to obtain the biodegradable packaging material.

9. An article produced from a biodegradable packaging material derived from agricultural and industrial waste with a thickness ranging from 20 microns to 2 mm, the article is biodegradable and compostable in nature.

10. The article as claimed in claim 9, wherein the article is selected form a group consisting of injection-molded caps, closures, blown films, thermoformed trays, sachets, pouches, and sheets.

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