1. A process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps; a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution; b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the said solution to form a mixture; c. boiling the said mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

2. A biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as claimed in claim 1.

3. A process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps; a. dissolving 3gms of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, 3gms of sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and 3gms of corn starch derived from maize in 300mL of distilled water to form a solution; b. adding 6mL of plasticizer glycerol to the said solution to form a mixture; c. boiling the said mixture to a temperature of 90֩ C for 30 min and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at room temperature for 24 hours and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

4. A biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as claimed in claim 3.

5. The process as claimed in claim 1& 3 wherein the said carrageenan is extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii by KOH extraction.

6. The process as claimed in claim 1 & 3 wherein the said sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii by Le-Gloahec -Herter method.

7. The process as claimed in claim 1 & 3 wherein the said corn starch derived from maize by wet milling method. Dated this 28th day of JAN 2022 For SREE BALAJI MEDICAL COLLEGE & HOSPITAL, BIHER By its Patent Agent Dr.B.Deepa IN/PA 1477 , Description:Form 2 THE PATENT ACT, 1970 (39 of 1970) & THE PATENT RULES, 2003 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION (See section 10 and rule 13) “A PROCESS OF PREPARATION OF SEAWEED BASED BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC FILM AND PRODUCT THEREOF” in the name of SREE BALAJI MEDICAL COLLEGE & HOSPITAL, BIHER an Indian nationals having address at No 7, WORKS ROAD, CHROMEPET, CHENNAI-600 044, TAMIL NADU, INDIA. The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed FIELD OF THE INVENTION: The present invention generally relates to a bio degradable protection film. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film and product thereof. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION: Plastics were introduced approximately 100 years ago; today plastics are one of the most used and most versatile materials. Yet society is fundamentally ambivalent toward plastics, due to their environmental implications, so interest in bioplasticshas sparked. It is estimated that since the 1950s, approximately 1 billion tons of plastics have been discarded and some of that material might persist for centuries or even significantly longer, as it is demonstrated by the persistence of natural materials such as amber. Plastic waste is the third-largest waste source in the world, so it raises the world’s human health and environmental concerns. Recycling plastics is not always feasible, and it can have a negative eco balance due to the efforts for collecting, sorting, and processing them. In most cases, they need to be washed, and waste grinding and processing are energy consuming. The recycling rate of plastics differs from country to country; there are also differences in the plastics concerned. In the United States, the recycling rate for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging (bottles) was 31.2% in 2013.PET has the highest value of commodity plastics and is used mainly for drinking bottles; hence, efforts are made to collect it. Recycled plastics go through different processing steps such as sorting and melt filtration. They can often only be used in lower grade products, typically not with direct food contact or high performance applications. Replacing conventional petroleum plastic with bioplastic is an alternative way to minimise plastic wastes from human life and bioplastic is more environmentally friendly. There are few reports available in the literature about the existence of various concepts on preparation of bioplastics. US9085677B2 discloses a Bioplastics including an oligosaccharide, a plasticizer, and an additive are described. Such bioplastics display advantageous attributes including tensile strength that can be tailored for particular uses. Processes for obtaining such bioplastics are also described. KR101384444B1 discloses a Biodegradable plastic composition0.01 to 10 parts by weight of a carbodiimide compound, 0.01 to 5 parts by weight of an ultraviolet absorber and 0.01 to 3 parts by weight of an antioxidant are included as essential ingredients in 100 parts by weight of biodegradable plastics derived from natural products or produced by microorganisms. US20200017258A1 discloses a biodegradable, thermally insulated mailer and cooler, and method of making them, are disclosed. The thermally insulated packaging material are made from laminated starch foam and bio-plastic film. The lamination can be performed by heat bonding, without the use of an adhesive bonding agent, to produce biodegradable packaging materials that can pass ASTM and other certifications for home compost ability and marine environment safety. BR112014029845B1 discloses a Compositions based on xanthan are described for obtaining bioplastics, bioplastics, between 100% and 100% biodegradable. 0 and 60% fillers, between 0 and 6% nanofillers, between 0 and 60% fibers, between 0 and 6% nanofibers, between 0 and 90% natural polymers, between 0 and 70% other polysaccharide natural polymers water-soluble, between 0 and 30% of auxiliary polymers and lubricants, between 0 and 10% of salts and oxides, between 0 and 10% of compatibilizers, between 0 and 5% of thermal stabilizers, between 0 and 5% of dimensional stabilizers, between 0.1 and 75% of plasticizers and dispersants, and between 0 and 5% of emulgents, and pigments and preservatives qsp. However, the protocols followed in the existing products are not much feasible and environmental friendly as they have more amounts of chemicals attributed in it. Hence there exists a need in the state of art to prepare a environmental friendly and high quality biodegradable plastic film which is devoid of above said drawbacks. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION: The main object of the present invention is to develop a novel process of preparation of Seaweed based biodegradable plastic film Another object of the present invention is to develop a novel biodegradable plastic film comprising of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii, corn starch derived from maize and plasticizer glycerol Yet another object of the present invention is to study the physical and mechanical properties of developed biodegradable plastic film. Further object of the present invention is to utilize a prepared seaweed based biodegradable plastic film for food packaging and in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and edible agricultural industries SUMMERY OF THE INVENTION: The present invention discloses a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film. The process of the present invention comprises of following steps; a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution; b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture; c. boiling the mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film. The present invention also discloses a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS: Figure: 1 depicts the PLATE – I Dried seaweeds A. Kappaphycusalvarezii B. Sargassumwightii C. Gracillariacrassa D. Gelidiellaacerosa Figure: 2 depicts the PLATE – II Extraction of carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii. Figure: 3 depicts the PLATE – II Extraction of sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii. Figure: 4 depicts the PLATE – III Extraction of agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa. Figure: 5 depicts the PLATE – IV Fabrication of films of the present invention. Figure: 6 depicts the PLATE – V Physical appearance of bioplastic film of the present invention F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film Figure: 7 depicts the overview of fabrication of biofilm of the present invention Figure: 8 depicts the PLATE – VI Mechanical properties of Carrageenan film Figure: 9 depicts the PLATE – VII Mechanical properties of Sodium alginate film Figure: 10 depicts the PLATE – VIII Mechanical properties of Agar film Figure: 11 depicts PLATE – IX Mechanical properties of Corn starch film Figure:12 depicts PLATE – X Mechanical properties of Carrageenan and sodium alginate film Figure:13 depicts the PLATE – XI Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film of the present invention Figure:14 depicts the PLATE – XII Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film Figure:15 depicts the PLATE – XIII Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film Figure:16 depicts the PLATE – XIV Soil burial test of the present invention F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION: The present invention discloses a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film and product thereof. The dried seaweeds (Kappaphycus alvarezii, Gracillaria crassa and Sargassum wightii) were collected from the Coast of Mandapam. These samples were washed with fresh water toremove debris and epiphytes. For the present invention four algae were selected (Plate-I). They are as follows

1. Kappaphycus alvarezii(A)

2. Sargassum wightii(B)

3. Gracillaria crassa(C)

4. Gelidiella acerosa(D) Extraction of carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii (Plate – IIA) The algae samples were further washed with running deionised water for 5 mins to reduce salt content that might affect the final gelling property of the carrageenan. The pretreated algae were dried in an oven at 60ºC until a constant weight was achieved to fullyremove the excess moisture. The dried pretreated algae were kept in the clean, anhydrousstate before carrageenan extraction was performed. The semi-refined carrageenan extractionwas carried out. The 5 g of algae were extracted with 500 mL of 1 M KOH based on with minor modifications. The extraction was conducted for 2 hrs at80ºC. The temperature was controlled to remain constant during the whole extractionprocedure. The algae were later cooled down to room temperature and normalised with running deionised water until the pH of algae solution became neutral. The wet algae werefurther dried in oven at 60ºC until it reaches the constant weight. Later the mixture was homogenised and pressure filtered while it was hot. The hot filtered solution was allowed forprecipitation. The precipitate was then dried in an oven at 60ºC. Extraction of sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii (Plate – IIB) Alginate extraction from Sargassum wightii was done following the Le-Gloahec-Herter method. Twenty five grams of seaweed powder was mixed with 200 mL of distilled water and soaked in 1% of 200 mL CaCl2for 2 hrs. The function of this process was to remove most of the laminarin, mannitol, salt and other unwanted components of carbohydrates which presents in the seaweeds. The salts along with CaCl2were then removed by washing with clean tap water, while calcium alginate remains in the cell because it did not dissolve in the water. The washing process was stopped if the washing water was clean. Subsequently, the immersion was carried out in 2% 200 mL HCl for thirty minutes in order to dissolve the alkaline earth salt remnants. In addition, washing with clean water was carried out until thepH was neutral. The next stage of extraction by seaweed slurry was blended with 200 mL of 4% Na2CO3solution and heated in a 90ºC water bath for 2 hrs while it was periodicallystirred. This process was carried out until all cellulose became fine particles and homogeneous paste was produced. The dilution was carried out by adding distilled water and 4% Na2CO3in a ratio of 3:7. Further, the resulting solution was filtered using a filter cloth to obtain the filtrates. The filtrates were then heated to 40oC and coagulated using 10% of CaCl2. The filtrates were in a ratio of 1:5 and stirred for 15 mins to obtain calcium alginate clots. The remaining filtrate was coagulated with 5% of CaCl2and filtrate solution in a ratio of 1:5 to obtain a lump sum amount of alginate calcium. The calcium alginate obtained was acidified with 5% HCl until the pH of the calcium alginate was obtained then washed with 95% alcohol. The alginates were in a ratio of 1:1 by soaking while stirring for 20 mins and filtered. After that, Na incorporation was carried out using 1% of Na2CO3and calcium alginate solution in a ratio of1:1.5 for one hour while stirring periodically followed by a washing process using 95%alcohol two times. The last stage was drying with a temperature of 70-75C for 8 hrs in a cabinet dryer. The final product obtained was dry sodium alginate. After obtaining dried sodium alginate was blended and sieved with a mesh. Extraction of agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa (Plate – IIIC) The alkali extraction method was carried out with Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa according to Chirapart et al. with few modifications. The dried seaweeds (10 g) weretreated with alkaline solution (500 mL of 5% w/v NaOH) for 2 hrs at 80ºC. The alkali-treatedsample was then rinsed properly and placed in deionized water at room temperature. The pHof the sample was adjusted to a range of 6.5 to 7.5. The sample was heated at 120ºC for 2 hrs. The filtrate of sample was left to cool to room temperature and frozen overnight toconcentrate the agar gel. The solidified agar was thawed and dried at 50ºC for 24 hrs Fabrication offilms :(Plate –IV) Films were fabricated using carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar separately and various combinations of the four algal products were also used to fabricate the various films. Corn starch film was also fabricated and it was also used in few combinations to see if it had any effect on the quality of the films. Glycerol is used as the plasticiser. F1 - Carrageenan film, F2 - Sodium alginate film, F3 - Agar film, F4 - Corn starch film, F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film, F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film, F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film, F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch films are used the films made with various algal products and their combination. Bioplastic films were prepared by film casting method. For fabrication of films using a single algal product, algal solution was prepared by adding 3.0 g of the algal product in 100ml distilled water and 2ml plasticiser glycerol was added to it. The mixture was heated on a low flame, poured evenly onto a tray of size 26 cm X 18 cm and dried outside for 24 hours. The films were later removed and used for further tests. For fabrication of films using a combination of algal product, algal solution was prepared by adding 3.0 g of each algal product in 200ml, 300ml or 400ml of distilled water based on the number of algal products 2, 3 or 4 respectively in the combination and 4ml, 6ml or 8ml plasticiser glycerol based on the number of algal products 2, 3 or 4 respectively in the combination was added to it. The mixture was heated on a low flame, poured evenly onto a tray of size 24 cm X 33 cm and dried outside for 24 hours. The films were later removed and used for further tests. Film thickness and mechanical properties: The film thickness and tensile strength was determined at the Polymer Science Department, University of Madras, and Chennai by method described by Stevens, 2002 using a digital tensile strength tester machine. Soil burial test: Biodegradability of the bioplastic films were examined with soil burial test in three different types of soil - garden soil (S1), clay soil (S2) and beach sand (S3). The samples were buried in pots with different types of soils and left for 30 days. The initial weight (Mo) and the final weight (M1) were recorded. 2gms of each film was taken initially and thus the initial weight (Mo) for all the samples is 2gms. The percentage of weight loss after 30 days is calculated by using the following Equation. Weight loss (%) = Mo – M 1 × 100 % ------------- Mo Results of the present invention: Physical appearance of bio plastic film: (Plate – V) Plate-II illustrates that the composite films prepared by using carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar, and corn starch separately and with various combinations with the solution casting method were visually homogeneous, smooth, and translucent. The films F3 and F4 were transparent. The films with higher sodium alginate content appeared darker and more brownish yellow in colour. The agar and corn starch films were colourless. The carrageenan film appeared little yellowish but was less coloured than the sodium alginate film. This phenomenon was due to the presence of pigments, including the carotenoids, phaeophytin, and chlorophyll a components in seaweed, that capture the light energy and thus provide colour to the films. Mechanical properties of bio plastic film :( Plate – VI to Plate XIII) Bioplastics may be subjected to various stress and pressure while usage and thus it is necessary to analyse the mechanical properties to predict their behaviour when they are used. Tensile strength and elongation at break are very useful parameters for describing the mechanical properties of a film, and are closely related with its internal structure. Tensile strength is the maximum tensile stress sustained by the sample during the tension test. If maximum tensile stress occurs at either the yield point or the breaking point, it is designated tensile strength at yield or at break respectively. Elongation at break is the indication of a film’s flexibility and stretchability. This is determined as the point when the film breaks under tensile testing. It is expressed as the percentage of change of the original length of the specimen between the grips used to stretch the film. Two samples for each film were used to study the thickness, tensile strength and elongation of the produced films and the average is given in the Table.1. The tensile strength values (TS) of the films range from a minimum of 0.984 N/mm for the film F3 to a maximum of 3.073 N/mm for the film F7. The TS value of corn starch film was found to be 0 N/mm. And, thus films made only from corn starch cannot be used individually but corn starch can be used along with other products in small amounts to increase the strength. It was found that when corn starch concentration equalled or exceeded the seaweed concentration, the mechanical property, mainly TS, deteriorated. Among the films which contained only one algal product, only the film F3 had the highest TS value 3.045 N/mm. But the film with only sodium alginate did not form a uniform film and thus cannot be used alone. The TS of film with a combination of carrageenan and sodium alginate with either agar or corn starch is found to be higher than that of film formed only by combining carrageenan and sodium alginate. Whereas, when both agar and corn starch are added to carrageenan and sodium alginate the TS starts to decrease. And also it can be noted that the TS of the film formed by the combination of carrageenan and sodium alginate is lesser than that of the films with only one of the two algal products or with the combination of either agar or corn starch. The Elongation value (E) shows us the capacity of the film to stretch or elongate before it breaks. The E value is found to increase with increase in TS. The values range from a minimum of 17.2% for the film F3 to a maximum of 32.035%for the film F2. But the film F7 shows low E value even though the TS value is the highest. The film F6 shows a high value of both TS and E which are 3.051 N/mm2 and 31.275%. The film F3 despite having high values of both TS and E cannot be used alone as they do not tend to form an even film and can be used only by combining with other products to get the desired results. The film F4 has no elongation values. The film F3 with only agar shows very low values of both TS and E. Soil burial test : (Plate – XIV) Soil burial test was carried out for all the films except the film F4 to determine the biodegradability of the various films developed in various types of soil. Biodegradability is the ability of polymers to breakdown by environmental factors and microorganism activities. Degradation of the films was found to be more in the garden soil than that of degradation in clay soil and beach sand. This may be attributed to the nature of each soil, the microorganisms in it and the moisture retaining capacity. Table 1: Mechanical properties of bio plastic film Film Thickness (mm) TS (N/mm2) E (%) F1 0.12 1.7365 27.36 F2 0.13 3.045 32.035 F3 0.175 0.984 17.2 F4 0.17 0 - F5 0.32 1.367 22.5 F6 0.14 3.051 31.275 F7 0.2 3.003 25.145 F8 0.23 2.763 23.41 TS - Tensile Strength E – Elongation F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film Table2: Soil burial test - Garden soil Film Weight loss (%) F1 74.5 F2 82 F3 80.5 F5 88.5 F6 90 F7 74 F8 83.5 F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film Table 3: Soil burial test - Clay soil Film Weight loss (%) F1 41 F2 58 F3 55 F5 56.5 F6 73.5 F7 58.5 F8 58.5 F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film Table 4 :Soil burial test - Beach sand Film Weight loss (%) F1 45.5 F2 54 F3 52.5 F5 56.5 F6 73.5 F7 56 F8 54 F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film The weight loss percentage of the bioplastic films in garden soil, clay soil and beach soil are given in Table.2, Table.3 and Table.4 respectively. Advantages of the present invention • In the present invention exploring themacroalgaeproducts directly from the ocean which is available freely. Hence, it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals. • A minimum level of reagents/chemicals was used in the present invention. • The methods are very easy to handle and not expensive to produce. • The products and by-product saree a sily degradable and its upports green healthier environment. Carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii and agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa were successfully extracted. The bioplastic films were developed with carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar both individually and with a variety of combination. Corn starch was added to a few combinations to see how it impacted the quality of the films. The films developed had a noticeable impact on their appearance based on the algal components in it and had different mechanical properties. The film with the combination of carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film showed high tensile strength value (3.051) and elongation at break percentage (31.275%) and is found to be the best and ideal combination among the various films fabricated. The combination of carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar also produced a film with the highest high tensile strength value (3.003) but has a little lower elongation at break percentage (25.145) and thus comes second to the film made of carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch. The films made with only one of the algal products showed low tensile strength and elongation at break percentage except the sodium alginate film. But the sodium alginate film did not form a uniform sheet and thus can only be used in combination with other compounds. Corn starch cannot be used separately to form bioplastic film as it forms a very weak film. But when it is used in combination with other algal products, it did improve the quality of the film. It was also noted that good films were formed when either corn starch or agar was used in combination with carrageenan and sodium alginate but when both corn starch and agar were added to carrageenan and sodium alginate combination, it started to deteriorate the quality of the film. It was found that the weight loss percentage of the films in garden soil was more than that of the films in clay soil and beach soil. This may be due to the presence of a large amount of microorganisms in the garden soil. The lowest weight loss percentage in films was seen in beach sand. This may be due to the reason that it is highly acidic which limits the growth of microorganisms, which are necessary for degradation of any biodegradable products. Clay soil helped the degradation of the films more than beach soil. This might be due to their property to retain water content which can enhance microbial flora in it making the bioplastic films degrade faster. Even though the time for degradation differs in each soil type, degradation does take place. It was also noted that the films were able to absorb moisture which is one of the main reasons for their degradability. Thus it is concluded, that the present invention demonstrated that it is feasible to produce biodegradable plastic films from various algal products (carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar) both individually and with various combinations. The films were homogenous, smooth, translucent or transparent and sometimes coloured. Due to their mechanical strength, they were also able to withstand stress during handling. The bioplastic films were also biodegradable in all the types of soil used in the test, only the duration different. The films produced are edible and can be used in packaging, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and agricultural industries. Algal bioplastic development can be seen as a future replacement for plastics to help us create a plastic free, healthy environment. It might also be a solution for eutrophication if bioplastics can be produced from algal blooms. Cultivation of macro algae for bioplastic production might also help us reduce atmospheric CO2. Since they are biodegradable bioplastics after usage can also help us enrich soil with various nutrients. Thus algal bioplastic development can help us create a sustainable environment. In one of the preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps; a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution; b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture; c. boiling the mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film. In another preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above. In yet another preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps; a. dissolving 3gms of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, 3gms of sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and 3gms of corn starchderived from maize in 300mL of distilled water to form a solution; b. adding 6mL of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture; c. boiling the mixture to a temperature of 90֩ C for 30 mins and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at room temperature for 24 hours and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film. In further preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above. As per the invention, in the process thecarrageenan is extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii by KOH extraction. As per the invention, in the process the sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii by Le-Gloahec -Herter method. In accordance with the present invention, in the process the corn starch derived from maize by wet milling method. Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the foregoing description. The above-mentioned details are provided to serve the purpose of clarifying aspects of the invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of the invention. All modifications and improvements have been deleted herein for the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly within the scope of the present invention. It is understood that the foregoing detailed description is given merely by way of illustration and that modification and variations may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims:We Claim:
1. A process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps;
a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution;
b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the said solution to form a mixture;
c. boiling the said mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

2. A biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as claimed in claim 1.

3. A process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps;
a. dissolving 3gms of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, 3gms of sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and 3gms of corn starch derived from maize in 300mL of distilled water to form a solution;
b. adding 6mL of plasticizer glycerol to the said solution to form a mixture;
c. boiling the said mixture to a temperature of 90֩ C for 30 min and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at room temperature for 24 hours and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

4. A biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as claimed in claim 3.

5. The process as claimed in claim 1& 3 wherein the said carrageenan is extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii by KOH extraction.

6. The process as claimed in claim 1 & 3 wherein the said sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii by Le-Gloahec -Herter method.

7. The process as claimed in claim 1 & 3 wherein the said corn starch derived from maize by wet milling method.

Dated this 28th day of JAN 2022

For SREE BALAJI MEDICAL COLLEGE & HOSPITAL, BIHER
By its Patent Agent

Dr.B.Deepa
IN/PA 1477
, Description:Form 2

THE PATENT ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)

“A PROCESS OF PREPARATION OF SEAWEED BASED BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC FILM AND PRODUCT THEREOF”

in the name of SREE BALAJI MEDICAL COLLEGE & HOSPITAL, BIHER an Indian nationals having address at No 7, WORKS ROAD, CHROMEPET, CHENNAI-600 044, TAMIL NADU, INDIA.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed
FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

The present invention generally relates to a bio degradable protection film. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film and product thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

Plastics were introduced approximately 100 years ago; today plastics are one of the most used and most versatile materials. Yet society is fundamentally ambivalent toward plastics, due to their environmental implications, so interest in bioplasticshas sparked. It is estimated that since the 1950s, approximately 1 billion tons of plastics have been discarded and some of that material might persist for centuries or even significantly longer, as it is demonstrated by the persistence of natural materials such as amber.

Plastic waste is the third-largest waste source in the world, so it raises the world’s human health and environmental concerns. Recycling plastics is not always feasible, and it can have a negative eco balance due to the efforts for collecting, sorting, and processing them. In most cases, they need to be washed, and waste grinding and processing are energy consuming. The recycling rate of plastics differs from country to country; there are also differences in the plastics concerned. In the United States, the recycling rate for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging (bottles) was 31.2% in 2013.PET has the highest value of commodity plastics and is used mainly for drinking bottles; hence, efforts are made to collect it. Recycled plastics go through different processing steps such as sorting and melt filtration. They can often only be used in lower grade products, typically not with direct food contact or high performance applications.
Replacing conventional petroleum plastic with bioplastic is an alternative way to minimise plastic wastes from human life and bioplastic is more environmentally friendly.

There are few reports available in the literature about the existence of various concepts on preparation of bioplastics.

US9085677B2 discloses a Bioplastics including an oligosaccharide, a plasticizer, and an additive are described. Such bioplastics display advantageous attributes including tensile strength that can be tailored for particular uses. Processes for obtaining such bioplastics are also described.

KR101384444B1 discloses a Biodegradable plastic composition0.01 to 10 parts by weight of a carbodiimide compound, 0.01 to 5 parts by weight of an ultraviolet absorber and 0.01 to 3 parts by weight of an antioxidant are included as essential ingredients in 100 parts by weight of biodegradable plastics derived from natural products or produced by microorganisms.

US20200017258A1 discloses a biodegradable, thermally insulated mailer and cooler, and method of making them, are disclosed. The thermally insulated packaging material are made from laminated starch foam and bio-plastic film. The lamination can be performed by heat bonding, without the use of an adhesive bonding agent, to produce biodegradable packaging materials that can pass ASTM and other certifications for home compost ability and marine environment safety.

BR112014029845B1 discloses a Compositions based on xanthan are described for obtaining bioplastics, bioplastics, between 100% and 100% biodegradable. 0 and 60% fillers, between 0 and 6% nanofillers, between 0 and 60% fibers, between 0 and 6% nanofibers, between 0 and 90% natural polymers, between 0 and 70% other polysaccharide natural polymers water-soluble, between 0 and 30% of auxiliary polymers and lubricants, between 0 and 10% of salts and oxides, between 0 and 10% of compatibilizers, between 0 and 5% of thermal stabilizers, between 0 and 5% of dimensional stabilizers, between 0.1 and 75% of plasticizers and dispersants, and between 0 and 5% of emulgents, and pigments and preservatives qsp.

However, the protocols followed in the existing products are not much feasible and environmental friendly as they have more amounts of chemicals attributed in it. Hence there exists a need in the state of art to prepare a environmental friendly and high quality biodegradable plastic film which is devoid of above said drawbacks.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION:

The main object of the present invention is to develop a novel process of preparation of Seaweed based biodegradable plastic film

Another object of the present invention is to develop a novel biodegradable plastic film comprising of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii, corn starch derived from maize and plasticizer glycerol

Yet another object of the present invention is to study the physical and mechanical properties of developed biodegradable plastic film.

Further object of the present invention is to utilize a prepared seaweed based biodegradable plastic film for food packaging and in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and edible agricultural industries

SUMMERY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention discloses a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film. The process of the present invention comprises of following steps;
a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution;
b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture;
c. boiling the mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

The present invention also discloses a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
Figure: 1 depicts the PLATE – I Dried seaweeds
A. Kappaphycusalvarezii
B. Sargassumwightii
C. Gracillariacrassa
D. Gelidiellaacerosa

Figure: 2 depicts the PLATE – II Extraction of carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii.
Figure: 3 depicts the PLATE – II Extraction of sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii.
Figure: 4 depicts the PLATE – III Extraction of agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa.
Figure: 5 depicts the PLATE – IV Fabrication of films of the present invention.
Figure: 6 depicts the PLATE – V Physical appearance of bioplastic film of the present invention
F1 - Carrageenan film
F2 - Sodium alginate film
F3 - Agar film
F4 - Corn starch film
F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film
F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film
F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film
F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film
Figure: 7 depicts the overview of fabrication of biofilm of the present invention
Figure: 8 depicts the PLATE – VI Mechanical properties of Carrageenan film
Figure: 9 depicts the PLATE – VII Mechanical properties of Sodium alginate film
Figure: 10 depicts the PLATE – VIII Mechanical properties of Agar film
Figure: 11 depicts PLATE – IX Mechanical properties of Corn starch film
Figure:12 depicts PLATE – X Mechanical properties of Carrageenan and sodium alginate film
Figure:13 depicts the PLATE – XI Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film of the present invention
Figure:14 depicts the PLATE – XII Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film
Figure:15 depicts the PLATE – XIII Mechanical properties of Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film
Figure:16 depicts the PLATE – XIV Soil burial test of the present invention
F1 - Carrageenan film
F2 - Sodium alginate film
F3 - Agar film
F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film
F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film
F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film
F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

The present invention discloses a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film and product thereof.

The dried seaweeds (Kappaphycus alvarezii, Gracillaria crassa and Sargassum wightii) were collected from the Coast of Mandapam. These samples were washed with fresh water toremove debris and epiphytes.

For the present invention four algae were selected (Plate-I). They are as follows
1. Kappaphycus alvarezii(A)
2. Sargassum wightii(B)
3. Gracillaria crassa(C)
4. Gelidiella acerosa(D)

Extraction of carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii (Plate – IIA)

The algae samples were further washed with running deionised water for 5 mins to
reduce salt content that might affect the final gelling property of the carrageenan. The
pretreated algae were dried in an oven at 60ºC until a constant weight was achieved to fullyremove the excess moisture. The dried pretreated algae were kept in the clean, anhydrousstate before carrageenan extraction was performed. The semi-refined carrageenan extractionwas carried out. The 5 g of algae were extracted with 500 mL of 1 M KOH based on with minor modifications. The extraction was conducted for 2 hrs at80ºC. The temperature was controlled to remain constant during the whole extractionprocedure. The algae were later cooled down to room temperature and normalised with running deionised water until the pH of algae solution became neutral. The wet algae werefurther dried in oven at 60ºC until it reaches the constant weight. Later the mixture was homogenised and pressure filtered while it was hot. The hot filtered solution was allowed forprecipitation. The precipitate was then dried in an oven at 60ºC.

Extraction of sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii (Plate – IIB)

Alginate extraction from Sargassum wightii was done following the Le-Gloahec-Herter method. Twenty five grams of seaweed powder was mixed with 200 mL of distilled water and soaked in 1% of 200 mL CaCl2for 2 hrs. The function of this process was to remove most of the laminarin, mannitol, salt and other unwanted components of carbohydrates which presents in the seaweeds. The salts along with CaCl2were then removed by washing with clean tap water, while calcium alginate remains in the cell because it did not dissolve in the water. The washing process was stopped if the washing water was clean. Subsequently, the immersion was carried out in 2% 200 mL HCl for thirty minutes in order to dissolve the alkaline earth salt remnants. In addition, washing with clean water was carried out until thepH was neutral. The next stage of extraction by seaweed slurry was blended with 200 mL of
4% Na2CO3solution and heated in a 90ºC water bath for 2 hrs while it was periodicallystirred. This process was carried out until all cellulose became fine particles and homogeneous paste was produced. The dilution was carried out by adding distilled water and 4% Na2CO3in a ratio of 3:7. Further, the resulting solution was filtered using a filter cloth to obtain the filtrates. The filtrates were then heated to 40oC and coagulated using 10% of CaCl2. The filtrates were in a ratio of 1:5 and stirred for 15 mins to obtain calcium alginate clots. The remaining filtrate was coagulated with 5% of CaCl2and filtrate solution in a ratio of 1:5 to obtain a lump sum amount of alginate calcium. The calcium alginate obtained was acidified with 5% HCl until the pH of the calcium alginate was obtained then washed with 95% alcohol. The alginates were in a ratio of 1:1 by soaking while stirring for 20 mins and filtered. After that, Na incorporation was carried out using 1% of Na2CO3and calcium alginate solution in a ratio of1:1.5 for one hour while stirring periodically followed by a washing process using 95%alcohol two times. The last stage was drying with a temperature of 70-75C for 8 hrs in a cabinet dryer. The final product obtained was dry sodium alginate. After obtaining dried sodium alginate was blended and sieved with a mesh.

Extraction of agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa (Plate – IIIC)
The alkali extraction method was carried out with Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella
acerosa according to Chirapart et al. with few modifications. The dried seaweeds (10 g) weretreated with alkaline solution (500 mL of 5% w/v NaOH) for 2 hrs at 80ºC. The alkali-treatedsample was then rinsed properly and placed in deionized water at room temperature. The pHof the sample was adjusted to a range of 6.5 to 7.5. The sample was heated at 120ºC for 2 hrs. The filtrate of sample was left to cool to room temperature and frozen overnight toconcentrate the agar gel. The solidified agar was thawed and dried at 50ºC for 24 hrs
Fabrication offilms :(Plate –IV)

Films were fabricated using carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar separately and various combinations of the four algal products were also used to fabricate the various films. Corn starch film was also fabricated and it was also used in few combinations to see if it had any effect on the quality of the films. Glycerol is used as the plasticiser. F1 - Carrageenan film, F2 - Sodium alginate film, F3 - Agar film, F4 - Corn starch film, F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film, F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film, F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film, F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch films are used the films made with various algal products and their combination.

Bioplastic films were prepared by film casting method. For fabrication of films using a single algal product, algal solution was prepared by adding 3.0 g of the algal product in 100ml distilled water and 2ml plasticiser glycerol was added to it. The mixture was heated on a low flame, poured evenly onto a tray of size 26 cm X 18 cm and dried outside for 24 hours. The films were later removed and used for further tests.

For fabrication of films using a combination of algal product, algal solution was prepared by adding 3.0 g of each algal product in 200ml, 300ml or 400ml of distilled water based on the number of algal products 2, 3 or 4 respectively in the combination and 4ml, 6ml or 8ml plasticiser glycerol based on the number of algal products 2, 3 or 4 respectively in the combination was added to it. The mixture was heated on a low flame, poured evenly onto a tray of size 24 cm X 33 cm and dried outside for 24 hours. The films were later removed and used for further tests.

Film thickness and mechanical properties:

The film thickness and tensile strength was determined at the Polymer Science Department, University of Madras, and Chennai by method described by Stevens, 2002 using a digital tensile strength tester machine.

Soil burial test:
Biodegradability of the bioplastic films were examined with soil burial test in three different types of soil - garden soil (S1), clay soil (S2) and beach sand (S3). The samples were buried in pots with different types of soils and left for 30 days. The initial weight (Mo) and the final weight (M1) were recorded. 2gms of each film was taken initially and thus the initial weight (Mo) for all the samples is 2gms. The percentage of weight loss after 30 days is calculated by using the following Equation.

Weight loss (%) = Mo – M 1 × 100 %
-------------
Mo

Results of the present invention:
Physical appearance of bio plastic film: (Plate – V)

Plate-II illustrates that the composite films prepared by using carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar, and corn starch separately and with various combinations with the solution casting method were visually homogeneous, smooth, and translucent. The films F3 and F4 were transparent. The films with higher sodium alginate content appeared darker and more brownish yellow in colour. The agar and corn starch films were colourless. The carrageenan film appeared little yellowish but was less coloured than the sodium alginate film. This phenomenon was due to the presence of pigments, including the carotenoids, phaeophytin, and chlorophyll a components in seaweed, that capture the light energy and thus provide colour to the films.

Mechanical properties of bio plastic film :( Plate – VI to Plate XIII)

Bioplastics may be subjected to various stress and pressure while usage and thus it is necessary to analyse the mechanical properties to predict their behaviour when they are used. Tensile strength and elongation at break are very useful parameters for describing the mechanical properties of a film, and are closely related with its internal structure. Tensile strength is the maximum tensile stress sustained by the sample during the tension test. If maximum tensile stress occurs at either the yield point or the breaking point, it is designated tensile strength at yield or at break respectively. Elongation at break is the indication of a film’s flexibility and stretchability. This is determined as the point when the film breaks under tensile testing. It is expressed as the percentage of change of the original length of the specimen between the grips used to stretch the film. Two samples for each film were used to study the thickness, tensile strength and elongation of the produced films and the average is given in the Table.1.

The tensile strength values (TS) of the films range from a minimum of 0.984 N/mm for the film F3 to a maximum of 3.073 N/mm for the film F7. The TS value of corn starch film was found to be 0 N/mm. And, thus films made only from corn starch cannot be used individually but corn starch can be used along with other products in small amounts to increase the strength. It was found that when corn starch concentration equalled or exceeded the seaweed concentration, the mechanical property, mainly TS, deteriorated. Among the films which contained only one algal product, only the film F3 had the highest TS value 3.045 N/mm. But the film with only sodium alginate did not form a uniform film and thus cannot be used alone. The TS of film with a combination of carrageenan and sodium alginate with either agar or corn starch is found to be higher than that of film formed only by combining carrageenan and sodium alginate. Whereas, when both agar and corn starch are added to carrageenan and sodium alginate the TS starts to decrease. And also it can be noted that the TS of the film formed by the combination of carrageenan and sodium alginate is lesser than that of the films with only one of the two algal products or with the combination of either agar or corn starch.

The Elongation value (E) shows us the capacity of the film to stretch or elongate before it breaks. The E value is found to increase with increase in TS. The values range from a minimum of 17.2% for the film F3 to a maximum of 32.035%for the film F2. But the film F7 shows low E value even though the TS value is the highest. The film F6 shows a high value of both TS and E which are 3.051 N/mm2 and 31.275%. The film F3 despite having high values of both TS and E cannot be used alone as they do not tend to form an even film and can be used only by combining with other products to get the desired results. The film F4 has no elongation values. The film F3 with only agar shows very low values of both TS and E.

Soil burial test : (Plate – XIV)
Soil burial test was carried out for all the films except the film F4 to determine the biodegradability of the various films developed in various types of soil. Biodegradability is the ability of polymers to breakdown by environmental factors and microorganism activities. Degradation of the films was found to be more in the garden soil than that of degradation in clay soil and beach sand. This may be attributed to the nature of each soil, the microorganisms in it and the moisture retaining capacity.
Table 1: Mechanical properties of bio plastic film

Film Thickness (mm) TS (N/mm2) E (%)
F1 0.12 1.7365 27.36
F2 0.13 3.045 32.035
F3 0.175 0.984 17.2
F4 0.17 0 -
F5 0.32 1.367 22.5
F6 0.14 3.051 31.275
F7 0.2 3.003 25.145
F8 0.23 2.763 23.41
TS - Tensile Strength E – Elongation F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film

Table2: Soil burial test - Garden soil
Film Weight loss (%)
F1 74.5
F2 82
F3 80.5
F5 88.5
F6 90
F7 74
F8 83.5
F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film

Table 3: Soil burial test - Clay soil
Film Weight loss (%)
F1 41
F2 58
F3 55
F5 56.5
F6 73.5
F7 58.5
F8 58.5
F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film

Table 4 :Soil burial test - Beach sand
Film Weight loss (%)
F1 45.5
F2 54
F3 52.5
F5 56.5
F6 73.5
F7 56
F8 54
F1 - Carrageenan film F2 - Sodium alginate film F3 - Agar film F4 - Corn starch film F5 - Carrageenan and sodium alginate film F6 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film F7 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar film F8 - Carrageenan, sodium alginate, agar and corn starch film

The weight loss percentage of the bioplastic films in garden soil, clay soil and beach soil are given in Table.2, Table.3 and Table.4 respectively.

Advantages of the present invention

• In the present invention exploring themacroalgaeproducts directly from the ocean which is available freely. Hence, it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals.
• A minimum level of reagents/chemicals was used in the present invention.

• The methods are very easy to handle and not expensive to produce.

• The products and by-product saree a sily degradable and its upports green healthier environment.

Carrageenan from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate from Sargassum wightii and agar from Gracillaria crassa and Gelidiella acerosa were successfully extracted. The bioplastic films were developed with carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar both individually and with a variety of combination. Corn starch was added to a few combinations to see how it impacted the quality of the films.

The films developed had a noticeable impact on their appearance based on the algal components in it and had different mechanical properties. The film with the combination of carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch film showed high tensile strength value (3.051) and elongation at break percentage (31.275%) and is found to be the best and ideal combination among the various films fabricated. The combination of carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar also produced a film with the highest high tensile strength value (3.003) but has a little lower elongation at break percentage (25.145) and thus comes second to the film made of carrageenan, sodium alginate and corn starch. The films made with only one of the algal products showed low tensile strength and elongation at break percentage except the sodium alginate film. But the sodium alginate film did not form a uniform sheet and thus can only be used in combination with other compounds. Corn starch cannot be used separately to form bioplastic film as it forms a very weak film. But when it is used in combination with other algal products, it did improve the quality of the film. It was also noted that good films were formed when either corn starch or agar was used in combination with carrageenan and sodium alginate but when both corn starch and agar were added to carrageenan and sodium alginate combination, it started to deteriorate the quality of the film.

It was found that the weight loss percentage of the films in garden soil was more than that of the films in clay soil and beach soil. This may be due to the presence of a large amount of microorganisms in the garden soil. The lowest weight loss percentage in films was seen in beach sand. This may be due to the reason that it is highly acidic which limits the growth of microorganisms, which are necessary for degradation of any biodegradable products. Clay soil helped the degradation of the films more than beach soil. This might be due to their property to retain water content which can enhance microbial flora in it making the bioplastic films degrade faster. Even though the time for degradation differs in each soil type, degradation does take place. It was also noted that the films were able to absorb moisture which is one of the main reasons for their degradability. Thus it is concluded, that the present invention demonstrated that it is feasible to produce biodegradable plastic films from various algal products (carrageenan, sodium alginate and agar) both individually and with various combinations. The films were homogenous, smooth, translucent or transparent and sometimes coloured. Due to their mechanical strength, they were also able to withstand stress during handling. The bioplastic films were also biodegradable in all the types of soil used in the test, only the duration different. The films produced are edible and can be used in packaging, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and agricultural industries.

Algal bioplastic development can be seen as a future replacement for plastics to help us create a plastic free, healthy environment. It might also be a solution for eutrophication if bioplastics can be produced from algal blooms. Cultivation of macro algae for bioplastic production might also help us reduce atmospheric CO2. Since they are biodegradable bioplastics after usage can also help us enrich soil with various nutrients. Thus algal bioplastic development can help us create a sustainable environment.

In one of the preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps;
a. dissolving predetermined amounts of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and corn starch derived from maize in predetermined volume of distilled water to form a solution;
b. adding predetermined volume of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture;
c. boiling the mixture to a predetermined temperature for predetermined time and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at predetermined temperature for predetermined time and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

In another preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a process of preparation of biodegradable plastic film comprises of following steps;
a. dissolving 3gms of carrageenan extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii, 3gms of sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii and 3gms of corn starchderived from maize in 300mL of distilled water to form a solution;
b. adding 6mL of plasticizer glycerol to the solution to form a mixture;
c. boiling the mixture to a temperature of 90֩ C for 30 mins and evenly pouring into sheets followed by drying at room temperature for 24 hours and removing the film to form biodegradable plastic film.

In further preferred embodiment, the present invention shall disclose a biodegradable plastic film prepared by the process as described above.

As per the invention, in the process thecarrageenan is extracted from Kappaphycus alvarezii by KOH extraction.

As per the invention, in the process the sodium alginate extracted from Sargassum wightii by Le-Gloahec -Herter method.

In accordance with the present invention, in the process the corn starch derived from maize by wet milling method.

Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the foregoing description. The above-mentioned details are provided to serve the purpose of clarifying aspects of the invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of the invention. All modifications and improvements have been deleted herein for the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly within the scope of the present invention. It is understood that the foregoing detailed description is given merely by way of illustration and that modification and variations may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention.