Biodegradable films from devilfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) skin collagen

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate the potential of collagen extracted from Pterygoplichthys pardalis skin for the development of biodegradable films.

Design/methodology/approach: Collagen was extracted by testing the effect of acid-to-skin ratio and extraction time using a 2² factorial experimental design. The extracted collagen was characterized by SDS-PAGE, infrared (FTIR) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Subsequently, films were formulated using a 2² + star factorial design with collagen concentrations (1 and 2%) and glycerol (10 and 20 mL), incorporating Arabic gum. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young’s modulus were evaluated, along with thermal properties (glass transition temperature, Tg; denaturation temperature, Tm) and biodegradability.

Results: The highest collagen extraction yield was 54%. The resulting films showed an average tensile strength of 1.26 ± 0.17 MPa, elongation at break of 15.99 ± 0.07%, and a Young’s modulus of 22.09 ± 0.078 MPa. Tg ranged between -13°C and -17°C, Tm from 140°C to 158°C, and biodegradability index reached 77.74 ± 6.76%.

Limitations on study/implications: This study was conducted on a laboratory scale; further research is needed to assess the scalability and potential industrial applications of these films.

Findings/conclusions: P. pardalis skin collagen is a viable alternative raw material for producing biodegradable biomaterials with favorable mechanical and thermal properties, contributing to fish waste valorization and sustainable material development.