ECO-FRIENDLY ANTIBACTERIAL PACKAGING MATERIALS FROM BANANA FIBER: A REVIEW
D.C.N. Munasinghe1* and W.V.W.H.Wickramaarachchi2
1,2Division of Polymer and Chemical Engineering Technology, Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa
Session: Technical Session B
Abstract
The global growth in plastic pollution has increased the demand for environmentally friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Banana fiber, a natural fiber source, has garnered significant attention due to its biodegradability, high cellulose content, mechanical strength, and availability as agricultural waste. However, biodegradable materials often lack inherent antibacterial properties which is crucial for sensitive applications like food and medical packaging. The objective of this review is to evaluate the potential of banana fiber as a base material for eco-friendly antibacterial packaging with a focus on enhancing its functionality through modifications using tannic acid for food and medical applications. The review discusses the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and surface modification of banana fiber through alkali treatment. It further explores biofunctionalization techniques such as fiber immersion, surface coating, and blending with biopolymers to improve the antibacterial properties of the fiber. Additionally, the review outlines current approaches to manufacturing antibacterial packaging composites including pulping, sheet forming, hot pressing, and lamination. Potential applications in food, medicine, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries are also highlighted. Although there is a growing interest in biodegradable packaging materials, limited research has explored the use of banana fiber in combination with plant-derived antibacterial agents such as tannic acid to develop multifunctional materials. Key findings include the fact that alkali treatment improves fiber bonding with tannic acid, tannic acid offers superior thermal stability compared to other natural antimicrobials, and banana fiber composites can extend food shelf life. These modifications support the development of sustainable, multifunctional packaging for various applications.
Keywords: antibacterial packaging, banana fiber, biodegradable material, tannic acid
DOI: 10.64752/UOJP9403