Development and Evaluation of Tensile Strength, Water Resistance, and Biodegradability of Bioplastic using Mermaid’s Fan (Padina pavonica) Seaweed and Extracted Cellulose from Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Lumber Sawdusts

DOI: 10.22161/ijeab.112.6

Abstract:
Plastic pollution has increased demand for bioplastic alternatives. This study developed bioplastic from Mermaid’s fan seaweed alginate and cellulose extracted from coconut lumber sawdust. Bioplastics were produced through alginate extraction, cellulose isolation, and material testing, with data analyzed using one-way ANOVA at 0%, 35%, and 70% cellulose concentrations. Results showed no statistically significant differences in tensile strength and water resistance among treatments (p > 0.05). However, water degradation differed significantly (p < 0.05), with the 35% cellulose formulation exhibiting the highest mass loss and fastest degradation. These findings indicate cellulose mainly affects degradation behavior. Therefore, Mermaid’s fan-based bioplastic shows eco-friendly potential as an alternative to conventional plastics.

Keywords:
Bioplastic, Cellulose, Padina pavonica, Tensile strength, Water Degradation, Water resistance

Article Info:
Received: 25 Jan 2026; Received in revised form: 27 Feb 2026; Accepted: 08 Mar 202; Available online: 16 Mar 2026

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