Cassava Starch-Based Biocomposites Reinforced with Zinc Oxide and Spent Coffee Ground Cellulose: A Comparative Study and TOPSIS Evaluation
Abstract
The accumulation of synthetic plastic waste and depletion of fossil resources have driven the search for sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable bioplastics. This study explores the use of cellulose derived from spent coffee grounds (SCG) and zinc oxide (ZnO) as reinforcing fillers in cassava starch-based bioplastics fabricated via solution-casting methods. Various formulations were developed using SCG cellulose (1%, 1.5%, and 2% with 10%, 15%, and 20% glycerol) or ZnO (1%, 1.5%, and 2% with 10% and 15% glycerol) The resulting films were evaluated for their mechanical, barrier, and optical properties, followed by structural analysis using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Results showed that SCG-based cellulose significantly improved tensile strength (up to 1.87 MPa) but reduced transparency (to 46.38%), while ZnO-enhanced films exhibited higher light transmittance (up to 70.28%). FTIR confirmed hydrogen bonding interactions between the filler and the starch matrix, and XRD revealed differences in crystallinity, with cellulose showing semi-amorphous characteristics and ZnO contributing to higher peak intensity. SEM analysis supported these findings, indicating a more compact and continuous matrix in ZnO films. A multi-criteria decision-making analysis using the TOPSIS method identified the optimal cellulose-based formulation as 2% SCG cellulose with 20% glycerol, which achieved a tensile strength of 1.87 MPa, transparency of 46.40, and a water vapor permeability (WVP) of 2.318 × 10-6 g/m·day·Pa. These findings demonstrate the potential of SCG and ZnO as functional additives in biodegradable packaging materials and support the circular economy by valorizing organic waste.
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