Fakultas Sains dan Matematika Universitas Diponegoro
Abstract
Biodegradable plastic is a plastic material that is environmentally friendly because it is able to return to nature. In general, biodegradable packaging films is defined as packaging that is recyclable and can be destroyed by nature. Cassava starch can be an alternative biodegradable plastic raw materials. The manufacturing process is similar to the process of making plastics with the raw material of synthetic polymers. Biodegradable plastics are new breakthroughs to deliver maximum results, with the base material of cassava and the addition compound limonene, the thickness of relatively thin plastic, the stronger the attraction, elasticity longer. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimum conditions to produce biodegradable plastics with the compound limonene (additive) from the extraction of orange peel. Research conducted through three stages: (1) extraction of orange peel, (2) extraction of cassava starch, and (3) the manufacture of biodegradable plastics. Variable is an experiment conducted on susceptible starch concentration of 4-6% and 5-7% concentration of sorbitol. While the cooking temperature between 70-80oC and the addition of an additive compound of orange peel extract as much as 15%. Of research can be seen that the concentration of cassava starch, sorbitol concentration and the concentration of limonene compounds influencing parameters tested. Percent extension treatment with the highest concentrations found in cassava starch 6%, 7% sorbitol concentration, and concentration of the compound limonene 15%. Relatively good condition or optimum in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics at 80 oC.
Keywords: biodegradable plastic, cassava starch, limonene, orange pee
