A team of researchers from Rishatnif University in Russia has achieved a significant breakthrough in developing a biodegradable plastic film that could offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging. The innovation aims to ensure the preservation of food quality and safety, addressing growing concerns over plastic waste and its impact on the environment. The research was highlighted by the university in a statement relayed by the Russian news agency TASS.

The study examined the effects of three additives commonly used in plastics to enhance flexibility and softness in the biodegradable films. The findings revealed that two of these plasticizers, Triacetin (TA) and Triethyl Citrate (TEC), altered the film's structure and caused it to become less cohesive. In contrast, another plasticizer known as Tributhyl Acetyl Citrate (TBAC) maintained the film's stability without compromising its integrity, thus making it more compatible with the plastic material used.

The practical implications of this research were demonstrated through an experiment where the TBAC-modified biodegradable film was utilized for wrapping chicken meat. According to Anna Sukhanova, head of the biodegradable polymer materials department at the university, the film effectively preserved the chicken meat while showcasing its potential for wider applications in food packaging, ultimately contributing to reducing plastic pollution.