Utilization Of By-products Research Articles

Effect of ultrasound on the characterization and peptidomics of foxtail millet bran protein hydrolysates

Protein hydrolysates have attracted much attention for their high biological activity and are a crucial product form for the utilization of foxtail millet bran by-products. In this study, changes in the structure, functionality, activity and peptide profile of foxtail millet bran protein hydrolysates (FMBPHs) at different ultrasound powers (0 – 600 W) were investigated. The results showed that ultrasound promoted the transformation of α-helix and β-sheet to random coils and β-turn, and the exposure of hydrophobic groups and sulfhydryl groups in FMBPHs. The average particle size of the samples decreased, and the absolute value of the ζ-potential increased significantly. Simultaneously, smaller porous particles and loose fragments appeared on the surface of FMBPHs when the ultrasonic power was increased to 450 W. Additionally, 450 W ultrasound treatment improved solubility, foaming properties, emulsifying properties, thermal stability of FMBPHs. The DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability (IC50, 2.65, 1.06 and 3.02 mg/mL), Fe2+ chelating activity (IC50, 2.62 mg/mL), and reducing power of the samples were also enhanced. The peptidomics results demonstrated that ultrasonication increased the number of active peptides in the hydrolysate, and the relative abundance of 17 active peptides was obviously elevated at 450 W. Peptide map analysis showed that ultrasound-induced structural modifications affected the peptide profiles of Ubiquitin-like domain-containing protein, Cupin type-1 domain-containing protein, 40S ribosomal protein S19, and Oleosin 1, showing changes in the abundance of certain peptides, which may be related to changes in the characterization of FMBPHs.

Purification and Identification of Novel Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Inhibitory Peptides Derived from Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis).

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors are widely used in treating type 2 diabetes due to their ability to lower blood glucose levels. However, synthetic versions often lead to gastrointestinal side effects. This study explores DPP-IV inhibitory properties in peptides from bighead carp skin. Collagen was prepared, hydrolyzed into collagen peptides, and then fractionated for DPP-IV inhibitory activity examination. The most effective fractions were identified, and their peptide sequences were determined. Molecular docking analysis identified nine peptides with potential inhibitory activity, four of which (VYP, FVA, PPGF, PGLVG) were synthesized and tested in vitro. PPGF exhibited the highest potency with an IC50 of 4.63 nM, competitively binding to key DPP-IV sites, including ARG125, VAL711, TYR666, and TYR662. Other peptides showed varying effectiveness, with IC50 values of 398.87 nM (VYP), 402.02 nM (FVA), and 110.20 nM (PGLVG). These findings highlight bighead carp skin peptides as potent DPP-IV inhibitors with hypoglycemic potential, suggesting a novel avenue for diabetes management using natural peptides. Moreover, this research underscores the utilization of bighead carp by-products, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Mechanism of Takifugu bimaculatus Skin Peptides in Alleviating Hyperglycemia in Rats with Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus Based on Microbiome and Metabolome Analyses.

In this study, we aimed to explore the hypoglycemic effects of a hydrolysate on Takifugu bimaculatus skin (TBSH). The effect of the dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory activities from different TBSH fractions was investigated on basic indexes, gut hormones, blood lipid indexes, viscera, and the gut microbiota and its metabolites in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The results showed that the <1 kDa peptide fraction from TBSH (TBP) exhibited a more potent DPP-IV inhibitory effect (IC50 = 0.45 ± 0.01 mg/mL). T2DM rats were induced with streptozocin, followed by the administration of TBP. The 200 mg/kg TBP mitigated weight loss, lowered fasting blood glucose levels, and increased insulin secretion by 20.47%, 25.23%, and 34.55%, respectively, rectified irregular hormonal fluctuations, lipid metabolism, and tissue injuries, and effectively remedied gut microbiota imbalance. In conclusion, TBP exerts a hypoglycemic effect in rats with T2DM. This study offers the potential to develop nutritional supplements to treat T2DM and further promote the high-value utilization of processing byproducts from T. bimaculatus. It will provide information for developing nutritional supplements to treat T2DM and further promote the high-value utilization of processing byproducts from T. bimaculatus.

Antibacterial activity of a polysaccharide isolated from litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) pericarp against Staphylococcus aureus and the mechanism investigation

The long-term use of antibiotics can cause drug resistance. Natural polysaccharides are a novel means of treating bacterial infections, and the development and utilization of litchi pericarp polysaccharide (LPPs) as a bacteriostatic active substance offer a new research direction for the high-value utilization of litchi by-products. This study revealed that LPPs inhibited Staphylococcus aureus more than Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella typhimurium, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations of 145, 205, 325, and 445 μg/mL, respectively. The inhibitory activity of LPPs was insignificant for Bacillus subtilis at 505 μg/mL. The assessment of antibacterial mechanisms revealed that LPPs influenced the growth, conductivity, protein, and nucleic acid, reducing sugar, respiratory chain dehydrogenase activity, bacterial lipid peroxidation, intracellular adenosine triphosphate, and extracellular alkaline phosphatase levels of S. aureus. Of note, LPPs could modify the cell wall integrity and cell membrane permeability of S. aureus, resulting in the leakage of intracellular large and small molecules, inhibition of cellular respiratory metabolism, and oxidative losses. These processes exhibited an inhibitory effect and made the bacterium nonfunctional, thereby affecting its growth and metabolism or causing cell death. These findings provide support and insights into the potential application of LPPs as a natural antimicrobial agent.

Unlocking the photothermal conversion capacity of lignin and lignin-derived materials

Lignin is the most prevalent polyphenolic organic solid waste generated by the pulping and biorefining industries. It confers upon woody biomass a remarkable combination of physical, chemical, and biological resilience, while simultaneously exhibiting considerable potential for photothermal conversion. In recent years, the utilization of technical lignin and lignin by-products to develop photothermal materials has emerged as a research hotspot. This review introduces the industrial separation processes and characterization of different types of lignin, highlighting the chemical structures of lignin and its derivatives linked to their photothermal conversion mechanisms. The evaluation pathways for photothermal conversion are summarized and critically assessed, as guided by mathematical descriptions of best practices in lignin-derived materials. This review covers and reflects on recent and emerging advances in materials and energy sciences that demonstrate how lignin can be utilized to maximize solar-to-thermal conversion and versatility in desalination, electricity generation, therapy, and intelligent and environmentally friendly building materials. Finally, the challenges and proposed future directions for the development of lignin-derived photothermal materials are identified with the objective of challenging the prevailing notion that lignin is merely an organic solid waste.

ABA and MeJA Induced Catechin and Epicatechin Biosynthesis and Accumulation in Camellia oleifera Fruit Shells.

Camellia oleifera Abel, one of the most valuable woody oil plants, has been widely cultivated for extracting edible oil. The shell of C. oleifera is a by-product generated in the processing of edible oil extraction. However, there is still limited research on the maturity and high-value resource utilization of shell by-products. We found that the C. oleifera 'Huashuo' (HS) fruit shells contained a high content of catechins. Abscisic acid (ABA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) enhanced the accumulation of catechins in C. oleifera fruit shells, providing a basis for production and application of the catechins in fruit shells of C. oleifera. We further found that 500 μM ABA and 900 μM MeJA significantly promoted the accumulation of catechin (C) and epicatechin (EC) in fruit shells. Following treatment with 900 μM MeJA, the expressions of CoPAL1, CoC4H1, CoC4H2, CoC4H3, Co4CL1, Co4CL2, CoF3'H1, CoLAR1, CoLAR2, CoLAR3, CoANR2, and CoANRL2 were significantly upregulated, while after 500 μM ABA treatment the expressions of CoPAL3, CoCHS1, CoCHS4, CoF3'H1, CoDFR, CoLAR1, CoLAR2, CoLAR3, CoANS1, CoANR1, and CoANR2 increased dramatically. These results indicate that appropriate concentrations of ABA and MeJA activate C and EC biosynthesis and promote their accumulation in fruit shells. Our results provide new ideas and guidance for promoting the resource utilization of C. oleifera fruit shells.

Strengthening effect of mechanical vibration on the carbonation properties of steel slag compact

This study examines the impact of mechanical vibration on the carbonation process of steel slag, a substantial byproduct of steel production. Employing a methodical experimental design that modulates mechanical vibration frequencies, the research reveals that mechanical vibration markedly influences carbonation, with an optimal frequency of 180 Hz leading to a 27.5 % increase in compressive strength of steel slag compact and an increase in CO2 uptake of 6.8 %. The application of vibration appears to catalyze the conversion of calcium-rich minerals into well-formed rhombohedral calcite, which emerges as the predominant carbonation product. Mechanism analysis suggests that vibration-induced particle redistribution creates new reaction surfaces, thereby accelerating the carbonation process. However, the effect is more pronounced in early stages, with diminishing returns as carbonation progresses. These pivotal findings propose an innovative strategy to augment the efficiency of carbonation and the inherent material properties of steel slag, thereby fostering a more sustainable approach to the utilization of industrial byproducts.

Injection molded lightweight composites from tea-stem fiber and polypropylene: Effect of fiber loading on forming properties and cell structure

China boasts abundant tea resources and substantial production output. To facilitate the high-value utilization of by-products generated during tea production, such as tea stems, thereby reducing resource wastage, this study pioneered the preparation of tea-stem fiber-reinforced polypropylene (TF/PP) composites through microcellular injection and conventional molding processes. The effects of tea-stem fiber (TF) content on the formability of foamed and unfoamed composites were compared and analyzed. The findings reveal that the inclusion of TFs fostered the crystallization of polymer chains, decreased the flowability of the composites in their molten state, and enhanced the density, surface hydrophilicity, and thermal stability of the molded composites. In the unfoamed state, composites with 20 wt%, 40 wt%, and 30 wt% TF content exhibited optimal tensile (35.92 MPa), flexural (58.43 MPa), and impact (6.49 KJ/m2) strength, respectively. Upon foaming, composites with TF contents of 30 wt%, 40 wt%, and 30 wt% demonstrated superior tensile (32.84 MPa), flexural (51.31 MPa), and impact (6.94 KJ/m2) strength, respectively. A 30 % TF content in foamed composites yielded the best reinforcement effect, creating an ideal balance of internal interactions. This resulted in mechanical properties that were close to or even exceeded those of unfoamed PP while reducing the density by nearly 6 %. The results from this study contribute towards the high-value application of tea by-products, promoting the development of the global tea economy.

Genetic Variation Affects the Anti-Melanogenic Efficacy of Platycodon grandiflorus Flowers

This study investigated the utilization of by-products from Platycodon grandiflorus and the role of genetic diversity in their anti-melanogenic properties, focusing on the purple-flower (PF) and white-flower (WF) varieties. Our results show that the WF variety exhibited significantly higher anti-melanogenic activity, attributed to higher concentrations of key saponins such as platycodin D3 and platycodin D. These saponins demonstrated strong tyrosinase inhibitory effects as confirmed by molecular docking analysis. Further, the WF variety showed increased expression of genes involved in saponin biosynthesis, highlighting the role of genetic diversity in determining phytochemical composition and pharmacological efficacy. The superior anti-melanogenic activity of WF suggests its potential as a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry for skin-whitening products. Our findings emphasize the importance of utilizing by-products and selecting specific genotypes to enhance the quality and efficacy of plant-derived products. Future research should explore the full spectrum of bioactive compounds in P. grandiflorus, investigate sustainable extraction methods, and conduct clinical trials to validate the safety and effectiveness of these compounds in cosmetic and therapeutic applications.

In situ fortification of cereal by-products with vitamin B12: An eco-sustainable approach for food fortification

Vitamin B12 deficiency poses significant health risks, especially among populations with limited access to animal-based foods. This study explores the utilisation of cereal bran by-products, wheat (WB) and oat bran (OB), as substrates for in situ vitamin B12 fortification through solid-state fermentation (SSF) using Propionibacterium freudenreichii. The impact of various precursors addition, including riboflavin, cobalt, nicotinamide and DMBI on vitamin B12 production, along with changes in microbial growth, chemical profiles, and vitamin B12 yields during fermentation was evaluated. Results showed that WB and OB possess favourable constituents for microbial growth and vitamin B12 synthesis. The substrates supplemented with riboflavin, cobalt, and DMBI demonstrated enhanced B12 production. In addition, pH levels are essential in microbial viability and cobalamin biosynthesis. Monosaccharides and organic acids play a crucial role, with maltose showing a strong positive association with B12 production in OB, while in WB, citric acid exhibits significant correlations with various factors.

Improving landfill liner performance with bentonite-slag blend permeated with ammonia for a Municipal solid waste landfill

Leachate emanating from landfills contains ammonia which may cause serious health effects on living things. An effectively designed clay barrier should not allow the contaminant to infiltrate the soil and groundwater systems. The utilization of certain industrial by-products in engineered landfill barriers, not only reduces the need for conventional liner materials but also helps in sustainable waste management. This study investigated the hydraulic conductivity, unconfined compressive strength, compaction, and adsorption characteristics of lithomargic clay blended with an optimum percentage of bentonite (10%) and granulated blast furnace slag (15%) permeated with ammonia. The results revealed that increasing the content of granulated blast furnace slag decreased the maximum dry density while increasing the optimum moisture content. In comparison to lithomargic clay, the hydraulic conductivity of the amended soil liner permeated with ammonia decreased from a value of 3 × 10−8 m/s to 5 × 10−10 m/s. The unconfined compressive strength of the amended soil specimens showed an increasing trend with curing times (i.e., 0, 14, 28, and 56 days). The batch adsorption results revealed that Freundlich and Langmuir's isotherm fits the equilibrium adsorption data and the adsorption of ammonia on clay liner follows non-linear behaviour. Overall, the experimental results implied that lithomargic clay blended with 10% bentonite and 15% granulated blast furnace slag can be used as an impermeable soil reactive barrier in engineered landfills.

Optimizing the Extraction Process of Bioactive Compounds for Sustainable Utilization of Vitis vinifera and Citrus sinensis Byproducts

Optimizing the Extraction Process of Bioactive Compounds for Sustainable Utilization of Vitis vinifera and Citrus sinensis Byproducts

Comparison of mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion of food waste: Focusing on methanogenic performance and pathogens removal

Food waste (FW) is a valuable and sustainable resource for anaerobic digestion (AD). However, mesophilic AD, commonly used, poses risks associated with pathogenic microorganisms, potentially limiting the safe utilization of digestion by-products. This study aimed to evaluate and compare methane production efficiencies and pathogen reduction capabilities between mesophilic and thermophilic AD processes. Methane production was assessed in batch and continuous operations under thermophilic conditions, resulting in methane yields of 380 and 360 mL/g VS, representing increases of 5.56 % and 22.44 % respectively compared to mesophilic conditions. Pathogen removal efficiency analysis showed that thermophilic AD achieved Escherichia coli elimination rates between 98.9 % and 99.9 %, with higher removal rates for Salmonella ranging from 77.9 % to 99.8 % compared to mesophilic processing. Overall, results from batch and continuous experiments demonstrate that thermophilic AD not only enhances methane production but also significantly improves pathogens reduction, offering a more effective approach for managing FW in AD systems. The findings of this study enhance the scientific understanding of anaerobic digestion technology in food waste treatment applications and provide crucial technical support and decision-making guidance for environmental management and renewable energy production.

Upcycling of melon seed (Cucumis melo L.) oil processing by-product: evaluation of functional properties and nutritional components as novel ingredient

BackgroundDefatted melon seed, a major by-product from melon oil processing chain, is scarcely utilsed. However, it has high potential value and can be used as novel ingredient in food products production. In line with zero waste policy and food sustainability, exploring and utilisation of this oil processing by-product can reduce food waste, and is key to moving towards a more sustainable food system. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the nutritional profile and functional properties of three varieties of defatted melon seeds (Galia, Cantaloupe, and Honeydew), and then compare them with defatted pumpkin seeds (as control group).ResultsIn this study, three varieties of melon seeds (Galia, Cantaloupe, and Honeydew) and pumpkin seeds (as control group) were defatted using Soxhlet extraction with petroleum ether; subsequently, their functional properties and nutritional components were assessed. The defatted melon seeds contained high level of protein (51.1–54.2%, w/w), dietary fibre (29.4–33.2%, w/w), potassium (1181.0–2373.1 mg/100 g), and GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid, 1.4–4.3 mmol/kg), whereas in terms of anti-nutritional compounds, they contained a relatively high amount of phytic acid (5.0%—5.8%, w/w). They also exhibited good in water/oil absorption capacity and emulsifying capacity. The phenolics were mainly free phenolics (FP) fraction (75%–77%), followed by the conjugated phenolics (CP) fraction (15%–16%), and the bound phenolics (BP) fraction (about 8%); the antioxidant capacity of each fraction followed the same sequence (FP > CP > BP).ConclusionConsidering the nutritional composition, functional properties, and the presence of potentially bioactive compounds, defatted melon seeds have considerable potential to be used as a functional food ingredient for the reformulation of foods.Graphical

EXTRACTION AND GCMS ANALYSIS OF OIL FROM RED COCOYAM PEEL (colocasia esculenta)

Extraction of oil from red cocoyam peel has been carried out using the cold extraction method, with a reagent n-hexane as the extraction solvent The GC-MS was used to identify the components in the oil after extraction, the components that was found in the oil include, 1,3,5- trimethy benzene at a retention time of (2.844)min with a peak of 3.342%, n-hexadecanoic acid at a retention time of(7.250)min with a peak of 26.395%, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid at a retention time of (7.685)min with a peak of 2.036%, 1,1-dimethyl hexadecenoate at a retention time (7.794)min with a peak of 2.013%,9-octadecenoic acid with a retention time (8.023)min with a peak of 44.142%, 9,12,15-octadecatrienal at a retention time (8.154)min with a peak of 2.819%, Butyl 9,12-octadecadienoate at a retention time (8.555)min with a peak of 7.395%, squalene at a retention time of (10.151)min with a peak of 1.417%, Ergosta-5,22-dien-3-ol at a retention time of (15.879)min with a peak of 4.482%, 5-cholestene-3-ol,24-methyl at a retention time of (16.714) with a peak of 2.617%, 9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-3-ol at a retention time of (18.368) with a peak of 3.340%. and these components were found to be useful in pharmaceuticals, industries and cosmetics. This study contributes to the importance of sustainable utilization of agricultural byproducts and highlights the potential of red cocoyam peel as a valuable resource for the production of bioactive compounds with diverse industrial applications.

Effects of neat and silver coated fly ash cenospheres on the properties of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer composites obtained by a solution mixing method

Utilization of industrial by-products to develop novel value-added materials while mitigating their environmental impact is a crucial issue. Fly ash (FA) microparticles are a common component of power plant waste. This work aims to investigate the impact of varying concentrations of neat/silver-coated FA on the morphology and thermal properties of styrene-butadiene-styrene/FA composites. Composite materials based on styrene-butadiene styrene triblock copolymer (SBS) with various volume fractions of as-received and silver-coated FA were prepared using a solution mixing method. Silver-coated cenosphere particles were prepared using an electroless plating method. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy showed that the solution mixing method obtains composite materials characterized by uniform dispersion of filler without large particle aggregates and predominantly unbroken cenospheres. The tensile strength of the composite with 10% of both as-received and silver-coated fly ash remains at the level of the unfilled SBS sample. However, at higher filler concentrations (20% and 30%), a decrease in strength by 27% and 42% respectively is observed, possibly due to the agglomeration of FA, which leads to a poorer interface and dispersion at higher filler weights. Additionally, thermal analysis in an oxygen atmosphere showed that the introduction of both as-received and metallized cenospheres in the same quantity increased the thermal stability of the tested composition. The temperatures at 5% mass loss of SBS/FA composites were on average 70°C higher than those of the original SBS.

Microstructural and functional characterization of sintered fly ash

The utilization of industry by-products, such as fly ash, was investigated. However, the research results have yet to report the functional characteristics of fly ash. This paper deals with the processing, microstructure, and functional characterization of fly ash using a novel powder metallurgy method. The elemental composition, mineralogical phases, morphology phases, electrical and dielectric properties were determined by XRF, XRD, SEM, and impendence analyzer, respectively. The effect of additives on fly ash’s microstructure and functional properties was studied. As a result, sintered fly ash possesses better microstructure and dielectric properties as a function of frequency and temperature. It is suggested that sintered fly ash can be utilized for electronic packaging and EMI shielding applications.

Utilization of local agro-industrial by-products based substrates to enhance production and dietary value of mushroom (P. ostreatus) in Ethiopia

Food insecurity and malnutrition are serious problems in many developing countries, including Ethiopia. This situation warrants an urgent need for the diversification of food sources with enhanced productivity. This study was aimed at contributing to the food security in Ethiopia through cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms using sustainable and locally available agro-industrial byproduct-based substrates in parallel with pollution control. Ten substrates were prepared using sugarcane bagasse, filter cake, trash, cotton seed hull and animal waste, namely cow dung and horse and chicken manure. The effect of each substrate (treatment) on the yields, biological efficiency, nutritional composition, and mineral contents of Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom species was evaluated at the Ethiopian Forest Products Innovation Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The results obtained indicate that a significantly higher (p < 0.05) yield and biological efficiency were recorded from the mushroom cultivated on S2 substrate containing a mixture of 80% sugarcane bagasse, 12% cow dung, and 8% cotton seed hull. Moreover, substrate containing sugarcane bagasse mixed with cotton seed hull, cow dung, and chicken manure significantly (p < 0.05) increased the yields and biological efficiency of the mushroom. The content of protein, crude fat, fiber, and carbohydrates of the mushroom cultivated from all the utilized substrates were in the range of 17.30–21.5, 1.77–2.52, 31.03–34.38, and 28.02–39.74%, respectively. The critical macro-elements are abundant in the mushroom in the order of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium. The mushrooms cultivated on all the substrates were rich in essential micro-elements in the order of iron and zinc. It was found that substrate preparation and formulation significantly (p < 0.05) improved the yields, biological efficiency, nutritive values, and mineral contents of the mushroom. The use of these by-products as substrates is sustainable and environmentally friendly and allows the production of mushroom with high nutritional value on a sustainable basis in order to enhance food security in the country.

Multi-frequency ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction of coconut paring oil from coconut by-products: Impact on the yield, physicochemical properties, and emulsion stability

Extraction of coconut paring oil (CPO) from processing by-products adds value to the product and reduces resource wastage. This study aims to assess the impact of 20 kHz, 20/80 kHz and 20/40/80 kHz of multi-frequency ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction (MFUAEE) on the yield, physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and emulsion stability of CPO derived from wet coconut parings (WCP). Results revealed that the CPO extraction yield with MFUAEE was 32.58 % − 43.31 % higher compared to AEE. The tri-frequency 20/40/80 kHz mode of multi-frequency ultrasound pretreatment exhibited the highest CPO extraction yield (70.08 %). The oil extracted through MFUAEE displayed similar fatty acid profiles to AEE, but had lower peroxide value, K232 and K270 values. Particularly, MFUAEE oil contained higher total phenolic content and exhibited potent DPPH free radical scavenging capacity. Results observed by SEM indicated that the pretreatment with multi-frequency ultrasound more efficiently disrupts the cellular structure of the WCP. Additionally, MFUAEE enhanced emulsion stability through the cavitation effect of ultrasound. These findings suggest that MFUAEE is a valuable approach for method for obtaining CPO with elevated extraction yield and superior quality, thereby enhancing the utilization of coconut by-products.

Innovative utilization of agro-industrial by-products: Bamboo leaf ash as a pozzolanic material for extruded fiber cement composites

This study aims to promote the valorization of agro-industrial waste and sustainability in the construction industry by evaluating the potential of bamboo leaf ash (BLA) as a partial replacement for Portland cement in extruded fiber cement. Squeeze flow, physical, mechanical, and microstructural analyses (Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray microtomography) were conducted. The results showed that the incorporation of fibers and BLA leads to an increased water demand and, consequently, an increase in porosity and pore connectivity. However, the mix design with 10 % replacement exhibited improved mechanical behavior for modulus of rupture (10.2 %) and limit of proportionality (4.5 %), when compared to a formulation without BLA. For the other parameters, the mix design with 10 % BLA showed mechanical behavior with no statical difference to the mix design without ash. Thus, the use of BLA as a partial replacement for Portland cement represents an alternative with technical and environmental improvements for fiber cement.