Chemical properties study of tablet disintegrants derived from banana peel mucilage / Ainul Mardhiah Binti Mohd Hasrol

Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology

Final Year Report (Bachelor of Manufacturing Engineering Technology (Pharmaceutical) with Hons.) -- Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah - 2025

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The increasing global focus on sustainability in pharmaceutical manufacturing has led to the exploration of natural and eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic excipients. This project investigates the potential of banana peel mucilage, a by-product of agricultural waste, as a natural and sustainable tablet disintegrant. The study aims to address the environmental concerns and high costs associated with synthetic disintegrants by evaluating the chemical properties and functionality of banana peel mucilage powder. The mucilage was extracted, oven-dried, and ground into a fine powder, which was then subjected to comprehensive chemical analyses. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify functional groups within the mucilage, providing insights into its chemical composition and potential for water absorption and swelling, crucial for tablet disintegration. The total ash value test quantified the mineral content, highlighting its purity and compatibility with other pharmaceutical excipients. Solubility and swelling power tests were conducted to evaluate the banana peel mucilage powder’s dissolution behaviour and water absorption capacity, which is important for promoting the rapid disintegration of tablets. From the Ruthenium Red test, the banana peel mucilage extracts exhibited a positive which indicated the presence of polysaccharides. The FTIR spectrum of dried banana peels and banana peels mucilage powder demonstrated the presence of cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and lignin which exhibit desirable properties for tablet disintegration. The total ash content analysis shows a lower percentage of ash content in the banana peel mucilage powder, indicating fewer impurities and minerals. Meanwhile, the solubility and swelling power findings indicate that banana peel mucilage powder has low solubility and high swelling power compared to dried banana peels. Results from these analyses confirmed that banana peel mucilage exhibits characteristics for use as a tablet disintegrant, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, and Good Health and Well-being. By repurposing agricultural waste, this study not only contributes to environmental conservation but also advances the development of cost-effective, and biodegradable pharmaceutical excipients.