Diseño de un proceso industrial para la obtención de un plástico biodegradable a partir de la cáscara de banano (Musa paradisiaca) para la empresa ROLDEG S.A. ECUADOR

Abstract

The objective of this project was to design an industrial process for obtaining biodegradable plastic from banana peel (Musa paradisiaca) for the company ROLDEG S.A. Ecuador. In order to address this challenge, the reception of the raw material was initiated where preliminary tests were carried out for sensory control, moisture, pH and total soluble solids. The starch was then extracted by three different methods, two by the dry process and one by the wet process. Finally, the biodegradable plastic was manufactured using the starch with the highest yield and varying concentrations of cornstarch, CMC, glycerin and acetic acid. By means of the methodology, an analysis of the raw material was carried out, which yielded values of pH (5.63), humidity (11.78%) and soluble solids (2.51°Brix). As for the biodegradable plastic, moisture (4.454%), thickness (0.233 mm), solubility (71.822%), maximum resistance (2.927N), permeability (0.0559g/h.m.MPa) and biodegradability rates in soil (25%), water (50%) and air (0%) were measured. To carry out the industrial process, several pieces of equipment are needed, including a metal table, a soaking tank, a tray dryer, a mill, a sifter, a mixer, a kettle, molds and a drying tunnel. In this context, it is concluded that the design consists of three key stages: raw material selection, starch extraction and obtaining the final product, in which variables such as weight, time and temperature were considered, giving a cost-benefit analysis with an NPV of 7154.80, IRR of 16% and a payback period of 3 years and 4 months. The implementation would save the company 27%, demonstrating the feasibility of converting banana peel waste into useful and environmentally friendly materials.