Development and Evaluation of a Biopolymer from Betina Rejected Potato (Solanum tuberosum L., Betina Variety) Starch

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.317572517078

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• Abstract:

  This study focused on the development, extraction, and evaluation of a biopolymer derived from potato starch (Solanum tuberosum L., variety Betina), specifically using "rejected potatoes"—tubers excluded from commercial markets due to factors such as size irregularities, price fluctuations, disease, or climatic variability. The starch was then characterized for its physicochemical properties, yielding a moisture content of 29,2%, ash content of 0,22%, and pH of 7,6. A biopolymer film was then formulated using glycerol as a plasticizer and tested for mechanical and biodegradability properties. Tensile strength analysis was conducted using a TA.XT Plus Texture Analyzer and NEXYGEN Plus software. Young’s modulus was found to lie between the typical values of low- and high-density polystyrene (1,04 and 10 MPa, respectively). The elongation at break was measured at 22,547%, and the density was 1,4 g/cm³. Biodegradability tests were performed under two conditions: composting at 55 °C using commercial compost (Anasac) and natural exposure to ambient air following ISO 14855-1.. After 42 days in composting conditions, the samples exhibited complete degradation. Under open-air exposure, the films showed initial fracturing by day 14 and total disintegration by day 33.