A Review on the Utilization of Epicuticular Wax from Plant Samples as a Hydrophobic Surface Coating Agent

The rapid increase in pollution caused by plastic, especially packaging material, is raising concern across the globe. The statistics are only increasing with time, and without prompt action, this issue shows no signs of slowing down. Various approaches, like the use of paper bags and the introduction of bio-degradable plastics, have been taken in an attempt to reduce plastic waste. Although these approaches help in the reduction of plastic waste the change in numbers is not significant. Biological plant species like Colocasia esculent and many others consist of a layer of bio-wax on their leaves, which is hydrophobic in nature. Numerous research studies have explored the potential of utilizing the bio-wax derived from Colocasia esculenta, apple, tomato, lotus, and other plants for the synthesis of a surface coating agent. A biological hydrophobic surface coating agent might be able to reduce the amount of waste produced due to the use of plastic as a packaging material. It could be used for the production of hydrophobic paper, an alternative packaging material in the form of paper bag. The objective of this review article is to investigate various studies that have examined the use of bio-wax as a surface coating agent, with the intention of exploring its potential as a viable alternative to plastic packaging materials.