Biodegradable-disposable containers made of Achira´s leaves (Canna edulis) by thermoconforming

Abstract

This study evaluates the feasibility of using Achira´s leaves, plant native form Ecuador used by indigenous people for food cooking, as a raw material for the manufacture of disposable plates. For this purpose, the Achira´s leaf was coated with a dispersion made of rice starch and gelatin in a 50:50 ratio with 2% (w/w) of solids content adding to this matrix an antimicrobial agent. The used films, the uncoated and the coated leaves were analyzed for its moisture, thickness and mechanical properties, also, for its structure using X-ray diffraction and response for microbial attack In-vitro and In-vivo. Results suggested that the Achira´s laves are compatible with the active biodegradable coat used, due to a slight increment in the thickness of the leaves before and after application of the dispersion, additionally, the coating improves mechanical properties increasing the leaves elongation up to 40% which is desirable in materials subjected to process involving pressure and temperature. The X-ray diffraction values suggested that the matrix and the leaf may have a similar behavior in a thermoconforming process. Finally, the microbiological analysis performed suggested that the biodegrable active coating gives protection to the Achira´s leaves.