Daniel Obono Ofem1; Charles Arikpo Ibiang2; Obojo Obojo Ogette3;Nsa, Sampson Edet4; Emmanuel Emmanuel Edet5; Etuki, Stephen Edoki6; Dominic Asuquo Offiong7
1,5 Department of Chemistry, University of Cross River State, Calabar, Nigeria.
2,7 Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Ugep
3,4,6 College of Nursing Science, Calabar
Corresponding Author:
Abstract
Bio-plastics are environmentally friendly polymers derived from renewable plant sources such as sweet potatoes, corn starch, sugarcane, soybean oil, and hemp oil. Unlike petroleum-based plastics, they are biodegradable through microbial action, reducing long-term pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. Among the various types of bio-plastics, those derived from starch and cellulose stand out due to their abundance, renewability, low cost, and biodegradability. Starch, a polysaccharide obtained from crops, and cellulose, the primary structural component of plant cell walls, can be combined to form green plastic composites with improved properties. Blending starch with cellulose fibers enhances mechanical strength, thermal stability, and moisture resistance compared to using starch or cellulose alone. These composites can be processed using conventional plastic-forming techniques and are suitable for applications in packaging, agriculture, and disposable products. Modification techniques such as plasticization, cross-linking, and esterification are used to address challenges like water sensitivity and brittleness. The integration of starch and cellulose into composite plastics supports global efforts toward sustainability and waste reduction. However, limitations related to processing, durability, and scalability remain. This review presents an overview of the composition, preparation methods, properties, and applications of starch and cellulose plastic composites, highlighting their potential and the need for further development.