Development of Composite Material from Sedge Mat Weaving Waste for Environmentally Friendly Packaging Design

Abstract

This research aimed to develop a bio-based material from sedge waste generated during the traditional mat-weaving process in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand, to create environmentally friendly packaging prototypes under the concept of a circular economy. The study integrated material science and eco-design approaches in both material formulation and product design. The sedge waste was ground and blended with cassava starch, starchy water, vegetable oil, and beeswax to enhance tensile strength, flexibility, and water resistance. The mixture was molded into bioplastic sheets and dried using solar energy. The mechanical tests showed an average tensile strength of 3.2 MPa, 85% recovery after bending, and over 80% biodegradation within eight months. In the design stage, the developed material was applied to create eco-friendly packaging prototypes such as souvenir boxes and display trays, emphasizing sustainable aesthetics and green communication. The evaluation using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) indicated high satisfaction in terms of safety, natural appearance, and environmental friendliness. The study demonstrates the integration of scientific experimentation and creative design to transform local waste into sustainable bio-materials, supporting community-based production and promoting circular economy development.