Assessing the performance and biodegradability of Sargassum sp. bioplastics as an alternative to conventional plastics

The increasing environmental concerns associated with conventional plastics have driven the search for sustainable alternatives. This study explores the potential of Sargassum sp., a brown seaweed as a raw material for bioplastic production. Sargassum sp. is abundant in west ocean in Malaysia, renewable and often considered a waste material in coastal areas, making it an attractive candidate for sustainable applications. The research focuses on assessing the performance and environmental impact of bioplastics derived from Sargassum sp. compared to conventional petroleum based plastics. The methodology includes the collection and preparation of Sargassum sp. samples, bioplastics synthesis through extraction and formulation techniques and evaluation of mechanical, thermal, and physical properties. Additionally, a comprehensive environmental impact assessment is conducted using an emphasizing biodegradability. The performance of Sargassum sp. bioplastics is benchmarked against standard plastics to determine their suitability for practical applications. The bioplastic samples also endured longer loading durations (up to 468.0 seconds), indicating better strain endurance compared to synthetic plastic, which failed as early as 216.0 seconds. This highlights the superior mechanical performance of the bioplastic. The bioplastic exhibited excellent biodegradability, fully decomposing within 28 days in soil, but showed extremely high water absorption exceeding 1000%, attributed to the hydrophilic nature of alginate. This research highlights the potential of utilizing marine biomass to address plastic pollution while promoting sustainable material development. The outcomes aim to contribute to the advancement of eco-friendly alternatives towards reducing reliance on conventional plastics.