Mechanical and biodegradability properties of Linear low-density polyethylene/porang blends

Plastic waste, particularly from Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), poses significant environmental challenges due to its persistent nature. Biodegradable plastics offer a potential solution, but the mechanical limitations of natural polymers hinder their widespread application. This study explored bioplastics developed by blending LLDPE with porang (Amorphophallus muelleri Blume) powder, a cost-effective glucomannan source. Blends were processed via extrusion with maleic anhydride (MA) as a compatibilizer and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) or dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as initiators. Mechanical analysis revealed enhanced tensile strength increasing by approximately 40 % (from 20.1 MPa for pure LLDPE to 35.5 MPa for the LLDPE/porang blend) and reduced elongation, reflecting increased rigidity. Biodegradability tests demonstrated improved degradation, with the LLDPE/MA/BPO/porang blend showing the highest total cumulative CO₂ emissions of 174.02 mmol, a fivefold increase compared to pure LLDPE, which emitted only 40.59 mmol over 77 days. These findings highlight LLDPE/porang blends as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, combining mechanical performance with enhanced environmental compatibility.