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Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Engineering – Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
CHEMISTRY FOR ENGINEERS: Laboratory Course
From Peels to Purpose: A Review of Bioplastic Production from
Potato Waste and Its Industrial Potential
“Waste is only waste if we waste it.”
– Will.i.am
Submitted By:
Pardo, Mary Jay Ann Blessie S.
BSIE 1-
Wendy B. Camara
Chemistry for Engineers: Laboratory Course Professor
A.Y. 2024-2025 2ND SEMESTER
Abstract
Can food waste become a solution to plastic pollution? This review explores the 2019 study by Bezirhan Arıkan and H. Duygu Bilgen, which investigates the production of bioplastics from potato peel waste and analyzes their biodegradability compared to commercial bioplastics. With pressing global concerns about plastic waste, the study offers a promising eco-friendly alternative sourced from food industry by-products. As an Industrial Engineering student, I found the process both inspiring and applicable, particularly for sustainable manufacturing, waste utilization, and green systems thinking. This paper summarizes key findings and reflects on how this study—and our classroom activities—deepened my understanding of responsible production.
Keywords:
Bioplastics, Industrial Engineering, Potato Peel Waste, Biodegradability, Sustainable Production, Circular Economy
low-cost and resource-efficient—key considerations in industrial production planning.
3.2 Water Absorption and Suitability The resulting potato peel bioplastic (PPB) absorbed 83.57% water in 24 hours, significantly more than the 7.48% absorbed by the commercial bioplastic (CB). While this limits PPB’s use in wet conditions, it could be suitable for dry packaging or short-term applications. Material-property alignment with product function is a valuable industrial engineering insight here.
3.3 Biodegradability Performance PPB completely biodegraded in vermicompost and 71% in moist soil within 28 days, while the commercial bioplastic showed no measurable degradation. This highlights the environmental advantage of using natural and waste-derived materials in manufacturing.
4.0. Critical Analysis
This study effectively demonstrates the potential of waste valorization, a concept vital in sustainable industrial engineering. The research could be strengthened by including an analysis of tensile strength, durability, and production costs to assess industrial scalability. However, even in its current form, the findings are encouraging for industries seeking low-impact material alternatives.
5.0. Application to Industrial Engineering
This study reflects many pillars of Industrial Engineering—particularly process optimization, sustainable systems, and innovative product development. It has motivated me to
think more critically about integrating sustainability into manufacturing systems. The possibility of repurposing waste into packaging aligns with principles we often study, like lean manufacturing and green logistics. It also shows how engineers can play a proactive role in addressing global environmental challenges.
6.0 Reflection on Class Activities
The activities we’ve done in class helped me truly grasp the value of this research. Those activities gave me the tools to appreciate how this bioplastic production method could be integrated into real industrial processes. It brought the theory to life, and I now see how classroom learning prepares us to contribute meaningfully to innovative, sustainable solutions.
7.0. Conclusion
This study is more than a scientific experiment, it’s a call to rethink how we use our resources. It shows that food industry waste like potato peels can be transformed into biodegradable plastics that are safe for the planet. As a future Industrial Engineer, this paper inspired me to explore creative, practical, and sustainable approaches in design and production. It left me optimistic that small innovations can lead to significant environmental change.
