Virtual Booth

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                                                   GELPLAS

Daymieadanessa Min Jimmy¹,Sherly Wong², Prisca Binti Juwawi³

¹Maktab Rendah Sains MARA Mukah, Jalan Bestari, 96400 Mukah, Sarawak, Malaysia

²Maktab Rendah Sains MARA Mukah, Jalan Bestari, 96400 Mukah, Sarawak, Malaysia

³Maktab Rendah Sains MARA Mukah, Jalan Bestari, 96400 Mukah, Sarawak, Malaysia

Abstract

Gelatin plastics are being developed as an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics, which cause severe environmental pollution due to their non-biodegradable nature. Made from gelatin, a natural protein derived from collagen, these plastics can be produced by dissolving gelatin in water, adding plasticizers like glycerol or sorbitol for flexibility, and casting the solution into thin films. Studies show that gelatin plastics form transparent and flexible films, with glycerol improving elasticity and sorbitol enhancing strength, though higher plasticizer content reduces tensile strength. They degrade much faster than conventional plastics, making them more sustainable; however, their high water absorption and limited thermal stability restrict applications such as food packaging. Future research is focused on blending gelatin with other biopolymers, using crosslinking agents, and adding antimicrobial properties to improve performance. Overall, gelatin plastics are a promising step toward reducing plastic pollution and building a more sustainable future.