Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive study on the development of a biodegradable packaging material using agricultural waste. The issue of plastic pollution and its environmental impact has spurred research into sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Agricultural waste, abundant and often underutilized, presents a promising resource for developing biodegradable packaging materials. This research project aims to address this challenge by exploring the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing agricultural waste for packaging applications. The study begins with an introduction to the background of the research, highlighting the growing concerns surrounding plastic pollution and the need for sustainable packaging solutions. The problem statement emphasizes the urgency of finding alternatives to traditional plastics, while the objectives of the study outline the specific goals and aims of the research. The limitations and scope of the study provide a clear framework for the research methodology and findings. A thorough literature review in Chapter Two examines existing research on biodegradable materials, agricultural waste utilization, and packaging technologies. The review covers a range of topics, including material properties, manufacturing processes, environmental considerations, and market trends. By synthesizing and analyzing the current body of knowledge, this chapter provides a foundation for the research methodology and theoretical framework. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including the selection of agricultural waste sources, material characterization techniques, and manufacturing processes. The methodology section outlines the experimental design, data collection methods, and analysis procedures used to evaluate the performance of the biodegradable packaging material. By following a systematic approach, the study aims to generate reliable and reproducible results. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the findings from the experimental testing and analysis of the biodegradable packaging material. The chapter examines the physical, mechanical, and environmental properties of the material, highlighting its strengths and limitations. The discussion delves into the implications of the results, their relevance to the research objectives, and potential avenues for further investigation. Finally, Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the research findings, drawing key insights from the study and discussing their significance in the context of sustainable packaging development. The conclusion highlights the contributions of the research, its implications for industry and society, and recommendations for future research directions. Overall, this thesis provides valuable insights into the development of biodegradable packaging materials using agricultural waste, offering a sustainable solution to the pressing environmental challenge of plastic pollution.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of a biodegradable packaging material using agricultural waste" aims to address the pressing need for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions in the current environmental scenario. The research focuses on utilizing agricultural waste as a valuable resource to develop biodegradable packaging materials, thereby reducing the reliance on non-biodegradable plastics and promoting a circular economy approach. The project begins with a comprehensive literature review to explore existing studies on biodegradable materials, agricultural waste management, and the challenges associated with conventional packaging materials. By synthesizing this body of knowledge, the research aims to identify gaps in current practices and propose innovative solutions using agricultural waste as a raw material for packaging production. The methodology employed in this research involves a systematic approach to material selection, processing techniques, and performance evaluation of the developed biodegradable packaging material. Various agricultural waste sources such as crop residues, husks, and stalks are considered for their suitability in material production, and different processing methods like compounding, extrusion, and molding are explored to create the final packaging product. The findings of this study are expected to contribute significantly to the field of sustainable packaging by offering a viable alternative to traditional plastic-based packaging materials. Through detailed analysis and testing, the research aims to demonstrate the feasibility, biodegradability, and performance characteristics of the developed packaging material compared to conventional plastics. The discussion of findings will delve into the technical aspects of material development, highlighting key parameters such as mechanical properties, biodegradation rate, and environmental impact assessment. The research aims to provide insights into the potential applications of the biodegradable packaging material across various industries and its compatibility with existing waste management systems. In conclusion, the project "Development of a biodegradable packaging material using agricultural waste" emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in packaging production and waste management. By harnessing the untapped potential of agricultural waste, the research aims to offer a practical and environmentally friendly solution to the global packaging industry, paving the way for a more sustainable future.