Synthesis and investigation of antimicrobial activity of bioplastic films from Persicaria odorata L. extract

Abstract

This study aims to synthesize a bioplastic film from sweet potato starch in combination with EtOH extract of Persicaria odorata Lour., showing the antimicrobial properties and biodegradability. The methodology includes investigating optimal conditions for bioplastic film synthesis combined with glycerol as a plasticizer and P. odorata extract. The bioplastic films were evaluated for sensory analysis, mechanical-physical properties, chemical characteristics, antibacterial and anti-mold activities, and biodegradation capacity. Results revealed that bioplastic films containing 15% glycerol and 20% extract exhibited potential sensory characteristics with a thickness of 0.24 mm, tensile strength of 8.42 N, and lower water absorption than films without plant extract. SEM analysis showed that extract-containing films had smoother surfaces with fewer pores. Notably, bioplastic films supplemented with 20% plant extract demonstrated inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus, preventing mold growth. Additionally, these films exhibited favorable biodegradation properties, with mass reduction exceeding 30% after 6 days and complete decomposition after 18 days when buried in the soil. This study has demonstrated the potential to applying bioplastic films derived from sweet potato starch combined with P. odorata extract as a solution to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste while enhancing food safety.