Characterization and blending of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) produced by Bacillus safensis FO-366(T) on cassava peels

Plastic industry has contributed significantly to the current state of environmental damage because the polymeric materials used so far in various applications are not biodegradable. Thus, the need for viable and sustainable solutions to reduce the environmental impact and have better performance than the options currently available. In this regard, biodegradable polymers emerged as one of the solutions to cushion impact of plastics waste disposal on the environment. Cassava peels were dried and made into powder, which was used for this study with Bacillus safensis FO-366(T). After 48 hrs of incubation the pellets were extracted and purified with chloroform. The pellets were dried and characterised. The FTIR and GCMS revealed the presence of 3HD methyl ester as the prominent monomers of PHA. The blends showed better mechanical properties than PLA and PE. This study revealed the potential of cassava peels as a carbon source for production of biodegradable polymer.