Factibilidad para la elaboración de envases primarios a base de hoja de achira

This research addresses the growing environmental challenges caused by the excessive use of plastic in primary food packaging. The study explores the feasibility of utilizing achira leaves as a biodegradable and sustainable alternative. The work is justified by the urgent need to reduce plastic dependency and promote the use of locally available natural materials, contributing to the circular economy. The Double Diamond methodology was applied, encompassing discovery, definition, development, and delivery stages. During the discovery phase, the natural properties of achira leaves were analyzed, identifying their potential as a raw material. The definition stage focused on determining the mechanical and functional requirements for the proposed material. Experimental methods included tensile and flexural tests (ASTM D638 and D790) to evaluate strength and flexibility, and the application of a beeswax and vegetable oil coating to enhance water resistance. In the development phase, prototypes were fabricated and tested, leading to an optimized material design. Results demonstrated that the achira leaf-based material achieved sufficient mechanical properties and water resistance for applications in lightweight food packaging. The proposed solution is biodegradable, aligns with sustainability principles, and offers a viable alternative to traditional plastics. The study concludes with the proposal of a sustainable food packaging material that reduces environmental impact and fosters the adoption of eco-friendly practices in packaging industries.

• 1. Verfasser: Suárez Meléndez, Jean Carlo (author)
• Format: bachelorThesis
• Veröffentlicht: 2025
• Schlagworte: MATERIALES BIODEGRADABLES; HOJAS DE ACHIRA; ENVASES SOSTENIBLES; ECONOMÍA CIRCULAR; SUSTITUCIÓN DE PLÁSTICOS.
• Online Zugang: https://repositorio.uta.edu.ec/handle/123456789/43938