Extraction and characterization of nano calcium from tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) scales from Semarang, Indonesia

Abstract

The research aims to develop a method to extract nano calcium from tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) scales. Yielding nano calcium from the fish scale will enable the marine and fisheries community to gain a higher economic value from this untapped source. The first study was designed to find the best acid solution (citric acid and HCl) and time (3 and 6h) for the extraction. The result revealed that calcium extracted with HCl for 3 h had a higher calcium content and yield than other treatments. The following study was conducted to find the best concentration of HCl and time for the extraction. The result revealed that calcium extracted for 30 mins with HCl 0.3 N had calcium content higher than other treatments. The powder is then ground with high energy milling (HEM) at a different time (3 and 2 h, and 15, 30, 35, 60, 75 mins) to get nano-sized particles. The Morphology and elements were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). To conclude, extracting with 0,3 N HCl for 60 mins and with a milling time for 45 mins was the best method to extract nano calcium from tilapia scales. The nano calcium can be used as additional ingredients for snacks to add value.