Utilization of Rice Husk-Derived Microsilica as a Reinforcing Agent in Mocaf Starch Bioplastics: Enhanching Mechanical Strength, Barrier Properties, and Thermal Stability

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Published Aug 20, 2026
https://doi.org/10.55043/jaast.v10i3.581
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Vol. 10 No. 3 (2026): Articles in Press

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Ruri Wijayanti
Andalas University
Emriadi Emriadi
Andalas University
Anwar Kasim
Dharma Andalas University
Nalwida Rozen
Andalas University

Abstract

Starch-based bioplastics are increasingly recognized as eco-friendly substitutes for conventional synthetic plastics owing to their renewable origins and biodegradability. However, their poor mechanical properties and high affinity for water limit their practical applications. In this study, microsilica derived from rice husks was incorporated as a reinforcing agent to enhance the performance of bioplastics based on a modified cassava flour (MOCAF) starch matrix. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of bioplastics with a MOCAF starch matrix and microsilica added at various concentrations. Bioplastics were prepared with the solution casting method involving starch extraction, gelatinization, addition of microsilica at varying concentrations (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5%), incorporation of a plasticizer (glycerol) and subsequent molding. The results demonstrated that microsilica addition significantly affected the physicochemical properties of the bioplastics. Tensile strength increased with microsilica content, reaching a maximum of 3.73 MPa at 5 wt%, followed by decreases at higher concentrations. Conversely, elongation at break decreased with increasing microsilica content, indicating reduced flexibility. Water absorption also decreased, indicating increased water resistance in the bioplastics. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the interaction between microsilica and the starch matrix, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed increased thermal stability after the addition of microsilica. Overall, the incorporation of microsilica effectively improved the mechanical, thermal and barrier properties of the MOCAF-based bioplastics, highlighting their potential for developing more durable and environmentally friendly materials.

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Author Biographies

Ruri Wijayanti, Andalas University

Doctoral Study Program in Agricultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, Padang, Indonesia

Emriadi Emriadi, Andalas University

Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Andalas University, Padang, Indonesia

Anwar Kasim, Dharma Andalas University

Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy Science and Technology, Dharma Andalas University, Padang, Indonesia

Nalwida Rozen, Andalas University

Department of Agricultural Cultivation, Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, Padang, Indonesia

How to Cite
1.
Wijayanti R, Emriadi E, Kasim A, Rozen N. Utilization of Rice Husk-Derived Microsilica as a Reinforcing Agent in Mocaf Starch Bioplastics: Enhanching Mechanical Strength, Barrier Properties, and Thermal Stability. J. appl. agricultural sci. technol. [Internet]. 2026Aug.20 [cited 2026Aug.20];10(3):513-24. Available from: https://www.jaast.org/index.php/jaast/article/view/581

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