Desenvolvimento de um bioplástico a partir da mucilagem do xique-xique (Pilosocereus gounellei)

Abstract

The growing concern about the environmental impacts caused by the improper disposal of conventional plastics has driven the search for sustainable alternatives, such as bioplastics. This study aimed to develop biodegradable biofilms from the mucilage of the xique-xique cactus (Pilosocereus gounellei), combined with agar-agar, glycerol, carnauba wax and sodium bentonite, evaluating their physical and chemical properties. The methodology included the extraction of the mucilage from the xique-xique and the preparation of the biofilms using the gel-casting technique. Four different formulations were tested, varying the concentrations of the components. The films were characterized for water solubility and thickness, in addition to being visually evaluated. The results indicated that the addition of glycerol improved the flexibility of the biofilms, while carnauba wax and sodium bentonite reduced the solubility.The film enriched with bentonite showed the best performances, with lower solubility (35%) and good malleability, standing out as the most promising. However, inadequate concentrations of carnauba wax or plasticizers resulted in brittle films with a heterogeneous appearance. It is concluded that xique-xique mucilage is a promising raw material for bioplastics, due to its wide availability and low cost. However, additional studies are needed to optimize the formulations, including tests of mechanical strength, barrier properties and water absorption, aiming to expand the applicability of these materials in the sustainable market.