Valorization of Jackfruit Seed Waste for Composite Film Preparation: Property Enhancement via Bacterial Cellulose Reinforcement

Conventional plastic has become an essential element in the manufacturing of nearly all consumer products. However, it has emerged as a major contributor to environmental pollution and is difficult to biodegrade. This research therefore synthesizes composite films from jackfruit seed (JSF) reinforced with bacterial cellulose (BC) for a sustainable alternative. The structural, physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of Jackfruit Seed Starch-based composite films (JSF/BC) were investigated. The incorporation of BC fiber into the JSF composite film matrix significantly enhanced the water resistance, UV blocking, and thermal stability. By loading BC at 40 wt.%, the mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elongation, were 0.74 MPa and 10.21%, respectively. JSF/BC composite films had a thermal stability at temperatures up to approximately 270 °C. JSF/BC composite films also exhibited a biodegradability of 72.1 - 100% within 15 days. The experimental results indicate that the composite film offers a green, high-performing alternative to conventional plastics, suitable for packaging and other short-term plastic products.