Alginate–Guar Gum Films Modified with Borax: Morphological, Physicochemical, and Mechanical Evaluation for Eco-friendly Packaging Applications

The environmental concerns associated with petroleum-based plastics have prompted extensive research into biodegradable alternatives for food packaging. In this study, biodegradable films were prepared from alginate and guar gum blends, and their physicochemical properties were systematically evaluated. Borax was incorporated to interact with the polymer chains and improve the mechanical performance and moisture stability of alginate-based films. The films were characterized for water absorption capacity, water vapor permeability, mechanical properties, and surface morphology using scanning electron microscopy to assess their suitability for food packaging. The results showed that borax interactions enhanced the barrier and mechanical properties of the films, highlighting their potential as sustainable packaging materials. Furthermore, the compatibility of alginate and guar gum at different blend ratios was examined, providing insights into optimizing biodegradable film formulations. This study contributes to the development of eco-friendly packaging materials and supports ongoing efforts to reduce plastic pollution in the food industry.