PBAT /Tamarind Kernel Powder Blown Films: Sustainable Alternative for Mulch Film Applications

The development of biodegradable mulch films is critical to advancing sustainable agricultural practices. This study presents novel bioplastic films derived from poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) and tamarind kernel powder (TKP) with a plasticizer (5 wt%), fabricated via blown‐film extrusion. TKP is rich in xyloglucan, a structurally complex hemi‐cellulosic polysaccharide that imparts inherent film‐forming ability and significantly enhances the physicochemical and functional properties of the developed films. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed the compatibility and morphological integration between the hydrophilic TKP and the semi‐aromatic PBAT matrix. Mechanical testing revealed that TKP incorporation enhanced the tensile modulus. The thermal stability of PBAT‐based films improved with TKP incorporation, accompanied by a reduction in melt flow index, indicating increased melt viscosity arising from enhanced intermolecular interactions and restricted chain mobility within the biopolymer matrix. The PBAT/TKP30 films exhibited elevated antioxidant activity (26.049 ± 0.056), attributed to TKP's polyphenolic content. A mulching study revealed that degradation occurred within 65 days, accompanied by increased macronutrient levels due to TKP's inherent protein and mineral content. These findings underscore the multifunctional potential of PBAT/TKP films as effective, carbohydrate‐based mulch materials, offering dual benefits of biodegradability and soil enrichment.