Mapping the Evolution of Starch‐Based Bioplastics: A Global Bibliometric Analysis (2010–2025)

ABSTRACT

Growing interest in starch‐based bioplastics has increased the need to understand how material functionality, processing, and environmental performance shape research priorities. This study presents a Scopus‐based bibliometric analysis of 766 articles published between 2010 and 2025, using performance analysis, science mapping, and citation analysis. The findings identify interconnected research themes encompassing mechanical reinforcement, barrier properties, active food packaging, biodegradability, and end‐of‐life management. Plasticization, polymer blending, crosslinking, and nanoscale reinforcement are important strategies for tailoring material properties, while functional additives introduce antimicrobial activity and ultraviolet shielding. Despite these advances, moisture sensitivity, competing performance requirements, production costs, and inadequate disposal infrastructure continue to constrain practical implementation. A key processing priority is to extend development beyond laboratory‐scale solution casting toward scalable manufacturing, including melt compounding and extrusion‐based granulation or pelletization. The production of granular feedstocks and application‐specific beads should be accompanied by assessments of storage stability, bulk handling, and transportability to support subsequent processing and distribution. Further research should integrate waste‐derived and non‐food starch resources with standardized evaluation of mechanical, barrier, and biodegradation performance under realistic application and disposal conditions. Comprehensive life cycle and techno‐economic assessments are also needed to determine whether improvements in material functionality translate into environmentally and economically viable products.