Researchers from the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a biodegradable bio-composite film that could replace plastic materials used in the healthcare sector. According to the institute, the innovation is intended to address the disposal of non-biodegradable medical plastics while supporting the demand for sustainable biomaterials.
The research team, comprising Dr Angana Sarkar, Associate Professor, and her research graduate Dr Pritam Bajirao from the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, NIT Rourkela, has secured a patent titled “Biodegradable and Antimicrobial Bio-composite Film and Process for Preparing Thereof” for the innovation (Patent No. 594073; Application No. 202531060261).
According to the institute, healthcare products such as wound dressings and bandages are commonly manufactured using petroleum-based plastics, resulting in plastic waste. It stated that while bioplastics such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have been explored as alternatives, their large-scale adoption has been limited due to brittleness and slow degradation.
To address these limitations, the researchers developed a material using a natural bioplastic produced by bacteria grown on sugarcane molasses. According to the institute, neem oil extracted from natural sources was incorporated into the composite to improve its mechanical strength and flexibility. The institute stated that this process resulted in a material that could be used as an alternative to plastic-based healthcare products.
Commenting on the development, Dr Angana Sarkar said; “The developed material is completely biodegradable and environmentally sustainable. During in-lab testing, it showed an improved mechanical strength, flexibility, and an increase in thermal stability and hydrophobicity which all indicate that it can be an excellent alternative to conventionally used biomedical films.”
According to the institute, the technology can be used in healthcare products including antimicrobial films, coatings, plastic-free bandages, wound dressings and other healthcare materials.
Stating on the wound-healing properties of the film, Dr Sarkar said; “Our innovation combines antimicrobial activity with wound care property. The neem oil present in the developed film prevents bacteria growth and provides a supportive environment for wound healing.”
According to the institute, the estimated production cost of the bio-composite film is Rs 14.33 for approximately 44.18 sq cm, indicating the potential for scale-up.
The institute stated that the innovation aligns with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India and National BioE3 Policy initiatives. According to NIT Rourkela, replacing petroleum-based plastics with biodegradable materials could help reduce healthcare-related plastic waste while supporting antimicrobial functionality.