Shell Powder Research Articles

A Hydration-Based Integrated Model to Evaluate Properties Development and Sustainability of Oyster Shell Powder–Cement Binary Composites

Currently, oyster shell powder (OSP) is becoming more widely used in the production of cement-based materials. The purpose of this study is to propose a predictive model that can predict the properties of concrete materials incorporating oyster shell powder. The methods of this prediction model are given as follows. First, based on the measurement results of the heat of hydration in the first 7 days, the prediction parameters of the hydration model are obtained. Secondly, based on the hydration model, the measured results of the heat of hydration were extrapolated, and the heat of hydration from the start of stirring to day 28 was calculated. From the calculation results, the developments of compressive strength, ultrasonic velocity, and surface electrical resistivity were estimated. Finally, we evaluated the CO2 emissions of concrete incorporating oyster shell powder. The CO2 emissions corresponding to unit compressive strength and unit surface electrical resistivity were calculated. The important conclusions of the prediction model are given as follows. First, for different substitution amounts of oyster shell powder, the model result shows that the ultimate value of the heat of hydration corresponding to the unit cement mass is the same, i.e., 454.27 J/g. While the substitution amount of oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the cumulative 28-day hydration heat for 1 g cement increases the powder amount from 405.7 J/g to 419.3 J/g. Secondly, as the amount of substituted oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the cumulative 28-day heat of hydration per gram of cementitious material decreases this amount from 405.7 J/g to 293.4 J/g. Compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and surface electrical resistivity can all be expressed as exponential functions of the heat of hydration. For compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and surface electrical resistivity, the coefficients of determination for the simulation results and experimental results are 0.8396, 0.7195, and 0.9408, respectively. Finally, as the amount of substituted oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the CO2 emission per unit of compressive strength increases from 10.18 kg/MPa to 16.51 kg/MPa. As the amount increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the CO2 emission corresponding to the unit surface electrical resistivity does not change significantly. In summary, the importance of this model is that it can predict various properties of concrete mixed with oyster shell powder, reduce the number of experiments, and promote the engineering application of oyster shell powder concrete.

Biosynthesis of Iron Nanoparticles (Fe NPs), and their Antibacterial Activity

Our ongoing research involves the synthesis of iron nanoparticles through a multi-step procedure that includes intricate processes resulting in the disruption of the bonds between the fundamental components of the oyster shell. As a result, we successfully extract iron nanoparticles from oyster shell powder. The obtained iron nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and FTIR-Based Analysis. These techniques confirmed that the nanoparticles possess the standard properties and meet the optimal specifications necessary for their function as an antibiotic to suppress bacterial action. Objective: Our research aims to biologically generate iron nanoparticles from oyster shells, meeting conventional standards that enable them to function as antibiotics. Methods: Our research employs a method for producing iron nanoparticles that involves a series of processes combined with the addition of chemicals that disrupt the bonds between the fundamental constituents of the oyster shell. This shell is first purified and then ground into a powder. Results And Characterization: The results were obtained using the SPSS statistical program, and the size of the iron particles was determined using the XRD crystallite (grain) calculator, specifically the Scherrer Equation. The characteristics acquired from the steps involving Fe NPs in our ongoing study are confirmed based on the measurements conducted using X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and FTIR-Based Analysis. These measurements indicate that the particles have a satisfactory size range of 30-100 nanometers.Conclusion: We conclude from our current study that there are no significant differences between the number of patients and the three stages type that recorded through this periodic time, even if there is a difference in age and gender.

Biosynthesis of Iron Nanoparticles (Fe NPs), and their Antibacterial Activity

Our ongoing research involves the synthesis of iron nanoparticles through a multi-step procedure that includes intricate processes resulting in the disruption of the bonds between the fundamental components of the oyster shell. As a result, we successfully extract iron nanoparticles from oyster shell powder. The obtained iron nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and FTIR-Based Analysis. These techniques confirmed that the nanoparticles possess the standard properties and meet the optimal specifications necessary for their function as an antibiotic to suppress bacterial action. Objective: Our research aims to biologically generate iron nanoparticles from oyster shells, meeting conventional standards that enable them to function as antibiotics. Methods: Our research employs a method for producing iron nanoparticles that involves a series of processes combined with the addition of chemicals that disrupt the bonds between the fundamental constituents of the oyster shell. This shell is first purified and then ground into a powder. Results And Characterization: The results were obtained using the SPSS statistical program, and the size of the iron particles was determined using the XRD crystallite (grain) calculator, specifically the Scherrer Equation. The characteristics acquired from the steps involving Fe NPs in our ongoing study are confirmed based on the measurements conducted using X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and FTIR-Based Analysis. These measurements indicate that the particles have a satisfactory size range of 30-100 nanometers.Conclusion: We conclude from our current study that there are no significant differences between the number of patients and the three stages type that recorded through this periodic time, even if there is a difference in age and gender.

Enhanced biomass production and harvesting efficiency of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii under high-ammonium conditions by powdered oyster shell

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii prefers ammonium (NH4+) as a nitrogen source, but its late-stage growth under high-NH4+ concentrations (0.5 ∼ 1 g/L) is retarded due to medium acidification. In this study, oyster shell powders were shown to increase the tolerance of C. reinhardtii to NH4+ supplementation at 0.7 g/L in TAP medium in 1-L bubble-column bioreactors, resulting in a 22.9 % increase in biomass production, 62.1 % rise in unsaturated fatty acid accumulation, and 19.2 % improvement in harvesting efficiency. Powdered oyster shell mitigated medium acidification (pH 7.2–7.8) and provided dissolved inorganic carbon up to 8.02 × 103 μmol/L, facilitating a 76.3 % NH4+ consumption, release of up to 189 mg/L of Ca2+, a 42.1 % reduction in ζ-potential and 27.7 % increase in flocculation activity of microalgae cells. This study highlights a promising approach to utilize powdered oyster shell as a liming agent, supplement carbon source, and bio-flocculant for enhancing biomass production and microalgae harvesting in NH4+-rich environments.

Use of shells for the mechanical stabilisation of sediments: a valuable geomechanical perspective?

The present study contributes to developing a novel eco-friendly solution for the mechanical stabilisation of dredged marine sediments by using mussel shells – another high-impact waste of marine origin – in the partial replacement of cements. What are the underlying chemo-mechanical interactions affecting the evolution of such mixtures? Can mussel shells replace cement without compromising useful geomechanical and geochemical properties of the stabilised sediments? Can such mixtures still be modelled as soils when it comes to their geotechnical design and analysis? The paper answers these questions by assessing the mechanical performance of mixtures formed by sediments stabilised with three types of cement and a mussel shell powder and comparing them with those of the same sediments treated with cement only. Multiple beneficial effects of the use of mussel shell powder, as a peculiar source of calcium carbonate from its biogenic origin, have been demonstrated: it acts as a void filler; enhances the electrolytic exchanges between sediment and cement, and increases the contact area between the mineral particles promoting the chemical hydration reactions. As a result, for fixed replacement ratios, the original mixtures still exhibit soil-like behaviour consistent with traditional geomechanics and even better performance than the control mixtures.

Effect of Pea Shell Powder on Chemical, Sensory and Cooking Quality of Macaroni

Background: This research looks at putting pea shells, a byproduct of pea processing, into macaroni to improve nutrition and sustainability. It aims to emphasize the feasibility and benefits of utilizing pea shells in popular cuisines by investigating their nutritional profile and sensory characteristics. This study addresses waste and nutrient-deficient packaged foods by exploring the synergy of culinary innovation and sustainability. Utilizing phyto-nutrient-rich by-products from fruits and vegetables, it proposes enhancing products like macaroni, noodles, cakes, biscuits and soups for a healthier and more environmentally sustainable future. Methods: Studied how adding pea shell powder (10-30%) affected the chemical, sensory and cooking quality of four macaroni types, comparing them to a control group without pea shell powder. Result: Macaroni with pea shell powder excelled in color, appearance and taste. Type I (10%) showed superior sensory attributes, while Type III (30%) lagged, impacting overall acceptability. Furthermore, cooking performance analysis indicated that the inclusion of pea shell powder influenced cooking time (16.45-11.48 minutes), water absorption capacity (106-160 g/100 g) and cooking loss (14.3-4.89 g/100 g). The pea shell powder incorporation enhances the nutritional profile of macaroni, including significantly increased protein (8.57-12.64%), dietary fibers, minerals and decreased fat, carbohydrate and energy (370.4-206.66 kcal/100 g) content. Calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium contents were significantly higher in value-added macaroni than in the control. The quality analysis clearly showed that value addition improves the nutrition and taste of macaroni, which indicates potential premium macaroni products for the food industry and healthy alternatives for consumers.

Production and characterization of waste walnut shell powder that can be used as a sustainable eco-friendly reinforcement in biocomposites

Abstract The rapid depletion of natural resources and the increase of environmental problems due to production-related waste necessitate sustainable waste management. In particular, reintroducing by-products and waste generated by agricultural activities into the economy is critical to reduce environmental pollution, solve the storage problem, and promote sustainability. Agricultural wastes such as fiber, husks, cobs, stalks, straw, dust, and particles are recyclable and can be innovatively reused in various sectors. One of the innovative fields where sustainable agricultural waste management can be implemented is the development of biocomposites. One of the most important steps in the production of biocomposites reinforced with agricultural waste is processing the waste biomass and making it usable as a reinforcing element. This study investigated the production of powder reinforcements for biocomposite material from the biomass of walnut shells using a ring mill. The walnut shells, mechanically reduced in size, were first dried at 100 °C for 3 h and ground at four different grinding times (10, 20, 30, and 40 min). Afterward, the waste walnut shell powders were subjected to sieve analysis and precise weight measurements. Then, the waste walnut shell powders, which were dried at 100 °C for 3 h and ground for 40 min, were subjected to a second drying process at 100 °C (60, 180, and 300 min) and ground again for 40 min. Then, the resulting waste walnut shell powders were subjected to sieve analysis, precision weight measurements, and microscopic, and SEM analyses to determine the characterization of the powders.

Insights into effect of lignocellulosic biomass framework types on bio-based shape stable composite phase change materials

The utilization of biomass waste as framework materials to inhibit the leakage of phase change material (PCMs) has gained widespread attention. In this work, three new kinds of shape stable composite phase change materials (sscPCMs) were prepared which combined with stearic acid (SA) and peanut shell powders (PSP), poplar wood powders (PWP), and corn straw powders (CSP), respectively. The influence of lignocellulosic biomass types on the thermal energy storage performance of sscPCMs was studied by comparing three types of sscPCMs. The research results indicated that SA/CSP exhibited superior properties in terms of load capacity and thermal energy storage performance. According to leakage experiments the load capacity of SA/PSP, SA/PWP and SA/CSP was 31.67 %, 44.69 %, and 50.09 %, respectively. The phase change latent heat of SA/PSP, SA/PWP, and SA/CSP was 55.78, 84.27 and 98.47 J/g, respectively. In addition, the relationship between biomass component content and load rates was studied. The results showed that there was a positive correlation between the loading rates of SA and the ratio of holocellulose (cellulose + hemicellulose) to lignin. The results provided a promising approach for the selection of lignocellulosic biomass framework materials.

Study on the Impact of Bio Waste Cashew Nut Shell Powder in the Polyvinyl Alcohol Bio Films

Study on the Impact of Bio Waste Cashew Nut Shell Powder in the Polyvinyl Alcohol Bio Films

Effects of calcined oyster shell powder composited with iron salt on the simultaneous removal of phosphorus and arsenic during algal bloom control process

Calcined oyster shell powder (COS) has the potential to serve as an efficient coagulant aid in water treatment for iron salt (IS) due to its potentially high aid capacity in alkalinity recovery and the simultaneous removal effects on algae, arsenic, phosphorus, and organic substances. However, little information is available on the specific effects and environmental impacts of COS composited with IS in coagulation for algal bloom removal. Hence, the COS was used as a coagulant aid to investigate the simultaneous removal effects on phosphorus and arsenic as well as the water environment changes during the bloom control of Microcystis aeruginosa using ferric chloride as a coagulant impacted by different hydraulic disturbances. Results showed that compared to the single IS coagulation with a pH value of about 3.1, the pH value significantly increased and stabilized at 7.5 from the 3rd day with the COS as the coagulant aid condition. Meanwhile, the removal rates of arsenic and phosphorus also improved by 14.4 % and 50.6 %, respectively, within 12 h, achieving near complete removal with little re-release risk, demonstrating excellent alkalinity adjustment and persistently simultaneous removal effects on phosphorus and arsenic. Furthermore, the coagulation aid of COS effectively inhibited the release of fulvic acid-like substances from algal cells on the 7th day. Meanwhile, it promoted the secretion of humic acid-like substances and microcystins production, as well as the release of fluorescent substances under hydraulic disturbance conditions. From the structural information presented by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the precipitates mainly consisted of proteins and lipids derived from algal cells, calcium carbonate, ferric hydroxide, and trace amounts of arsenite, further confirming their precipitated mechanism of algal cell combined through COS and IS. The results provide scientific support for the practical application of COS in algal blooms and its subsequent environmental risk control.

Innovative use of shrimp shell powder in carbon paste electrode for the electrochemical detection of dopamine and paracetamol: Valorization, characterization and application

The present study outlines the design of an innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly electrochemical sensor, based on a carbon paste electrode (CPE) modified by shrimp shell waste (SSW). The developed electrode was used to facilitate the electrocatalytic detection of two compounds, namely dopamine (DA) and paracetamol (PAR). The use of SSW as an electrode material is ground breaking. The results have shown that the addition of shrimp shell (SS) in the CPE has led to a significant increase in the active surface area (0.504 cm2) and has improved electron transfer by decreasing the charge transfer resistance (17.45 Ω.cm2) at the electrode/solution interface. The SSW was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and fourier transform infra-red (FTIR). The results show a fibrous and porous structure with high calcium content and other chemical elements including carbon, oxygen, sulphur, phosphorus and nitrogen. The electrochemical behavior of DA and PAR on the CPE-SS electrode was studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and square wave voltammetry (SWV) techniques. Additionally, CPE and CPE-SS electrodes were examined by SEM/EDS and FTIR. The effect of scan rate shows that the electrochemical process is diffusion controlled for DA and PAR. The CPE-SS electrode provide a wide linear range, good selectivity, repeatability, precision (≤5%), and low detection limits 3.6 µM and 5.54 µM for DA and PAR, respectively. In addition, the developed sensor was applied to detect DA and PAR in urine, tap water, and pharmaceutical tablets with apparent recoveries.

Optimizing the pore structure and permeability of calcined clay limestone cement through shell powder

Limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) as a novel low-carbon cement shows potential as an OPC replacement due to its lower clinker content and excellent performance. Nevertheless, Low degree of hydration in early age resulted in high porosity impacting properties. In this study, shell powder was employed as a carbonate filler to optimize the pore structure of LC3. The results indicated that adding shell powder improved pore structure, consequently enhancing compressive strength from 35.8 MPa to 40.5 MPa at 28 day. The collaboration of shell powder with limestone led to the highest compressive strength 41.2 MPa and lowest porosity 18.4 % at 28 days. The matrix had good compatibility when limestone and shell powder are combined for LC3. With the increased content of shell powder, the volume fraction of gel pores gradually increased, and the harmful pores decreased, which promoted the transformation of pores into gel pores. Pore connectivity was reduced, resulting in a denser LC3 matrix. Therefore, shell powder was a material that can effectively improve the mechanical properties and pore structure of LC3.

Potential use of hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) shell powder in muffin production by partial substitution of wheat flour: Color, bioactive, textural, and sensory properties

In this study, different muffin samples were produced by substituting 0, 5, and 10% (w:w) hazelnut shell powder (HSP) into wheat flour and their color, bioactive, textural and sensory properties were determined. The results showed that both total phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging activity did not change with the addition of HSP to the muffin formulation. Upon enrichment of muffins with HSP, L* and b* color values of muffins decreased in both crumb and crust, while a* values increased in crumb and decreased in crust. The more HSP used in the muffins, the more visible pore formation was determined. Textural analysis revealed that hardness, gumminess, chewiness values decreased while the springiness, cohesiveness and resilience values increased as the amount of HSP increased in the muffin formulation. The partial substitution of wheat flour with 5% (w:w) HSP received the highest crust, crumb, chewiness, taste/aroma and overall acceptability scores by the panelists. Overall, HSPs, which are a waste and by-product of hazelnut processing, can be successfully used in fiber-rich muffin production, both expanding their potential areas of use and contributing to their economic value.

Research on and application of low-temperature calcination on waste Taiwanese hard clam shell during Taiwanese hard clam aquaculture

This study uses a circular economy-regenerative value addition approach. Pre-treated waste clam shells were calcined at a low temperature (about 300 °C) and then crushed into clamshell powder. Taiwanese hard clam shell (THCS) powder and commercially available calcium carbonate products, such as low-temperature calcined oyster shell (OS) powder, slaked lime, and calcium carbonate, were compared experimentally, and the safety of THCS powder was determined. In the safety evaluation, the Vibrio-like bacteria test results showed that no colony growth was found for the low-temperature-calcined THCS powder, indicating that it did not contain Vibrio-like bacteria. Tolerance test results showed that high-dose slaked lime will cause high Taiwanese hard clam mortality, and the survival rates of other groups were all 100%. In addition, slaked lime had the most significant effect on increasing the water pH. OS powder had the greatest effect on increasing the calcium ion concentration in the water, followed by THCS power. The aquaculture benefit-related experimental results showed that the low-temperature calcined OS powder and THCS powder groups had the most favorable performance in terms of Taiwanese hard clam growth rate, shell weight, and shell thickness. This study used different calcium carbonate products as additives in Taiwanese hard clam aquaculture ponds and observed growth differences between the different groups. These results indicated that the low-temperature calcination of THCS in Taiwanese hard clam aquaculture can effectively replace the commonly used OS powder, slaked lime, and calcium carbonate products in traditional aquaculture. Furthermore, it can effectively solve the problem of THCS waste accumulation, promote environmental beautification, create a circular economy and aquaculture application value, and conform to the economic benefits of aquaculture.

Development of Nutrient-rich Cake with Supplementation of Pea Shells Powder and Nutritional Evaluation

Background: Bakery products like cakes are rich in starch, fat, and energy but deficient in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The cake is becoming a well-known delicacy during festival periods between all age groups mostly in urban areas. Providing a healthy and nutritious cake remains a main problem on account of extreme sugar or fat content that predisposes the buyers to obesity. Mixing the flours with plant components helps solve problems of low nutritive value of cereals. Pea shells are an excellent source of nutrients and have excellent functional properties, the substitution of flour with pea shells powder is the best way for consuming the nutrients which are likely to contribute substantially to the fight against targeted hunger and to bridge the gap of malnutrition. Keeping the view of the potential of pea shells powder in formulated products the healthy and nutritious cakes were investigated. Methods: Three cakes were developed with different formulations that include refined flour and pea shells powder in the ratio of 100:0, 90:10, and 80:20 with other basic ingredients of baking. The developed cakes were analyzed for organoleptic and nutritional properties such as proximate, dietary fiber, and minerals. Result: The sensory mean score was increased by the supplementation of pea shells powder. The result showed that 10% level was the optimum level of incorporation. A significant increase (0 greater than 0.05) in the nutrient contents such as protein (10.97 to 12.38%), crude fiber 90.31 to 1.85%), ash, calcium (53.33 to 193.33 mg/100 gm), potassium (162.48 to 335.42 mg/100 gm), magnesium (56.75 to 253.33 mg/100 gm), iron (3.94 to 5.49 mg/100 gm), and potassium (162.48 to 335.42 mg/100 gm) of incorporated cakes and decreased the fat (25.55 to 21.72%), energy (451.83 to 413.76 kcal/100 gm) content compared to control cake. The calcium and magnesium content increased two or four times more than control cakes. From the present study, it can be concluded that cakes containing 20% pea shells powder were nutritionally rich.

Mechanical, rheological, thermal and morphological properties of pistachio shell powder reinforced / linear low-density polyethylene/polyolefin elastomer biocomposites

In the present study, 20 wt% ENGAGE (a polyolefin elastomer) is melt blended with 80 wt% linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) followed by composite preparation with pistachio shell powder (PSP) in various compositions (40 wt% to 70 wt%). The effect of variation of PSP content on mechanical properties is studied. The processability of composites is improved because of the unique processability of ENGAGE. Consequently, filler-containing capability of the LLDPE/ENGAGE (LE82) blend is also enhanced considerably due to extra space generated by amorphous ENGAGE. Again, blending of 20 wt% ENGAGE with 80 wt% LLDPE is helpful for maintaining mechanical properties of LLDPE/ENGAGE/PSP composite in useful range. The rheological study confirms that complex viscosity (η), storage modulus (G’) and loss modulus (G”) remain almost unchanged with the incorporation of a high quantity of PSP into the LE82 blend system for all the composites in the entire frequency range. From the rheological study, it is seen that the thermoplastic nature of the composites is maintained. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) show the structural integrity of LE82 blend-based composites revealing the thermal stability of the organic filler and consequently the composites. SEM also shows uniform dispersion of PSP into the LLDPE/ENGAGE blend matrix. Such biocomposite with 70 wt% biodegradable component and reliable mechanical properties is attractive for wide spread applications.

Advancing responsible genomic analyses of ancient mollusc shells.

The analysis of the DNA entrapped in ancient shells of molluscs has the potential to shed light on the evolution and ecology of this very diverse phylum. Ancient genomics could help reconstruct the responses of molluscs to past climate change, pollution, and human subsistence practices at unprecedented temporal resolutions. Applications are however still in their infancy, partly due to our limited knowledge of DNA preservation in calcium carbonate shells and the need for optimized methods for responsible genomic data generation. To improve ancient shell genomic analyses, we applied high-throughput DNA sequencing to 27 Mytilus mussel shells dated to ~111-6500 years Before Present, and investigated the impact, on DNA recovery, of shell imaging, DNA extraction protocols and shell sub-sampling strategies. First, we detected no quantitative or qualitative deleterious effect of micro-computed tomography for recording shell 3D morphological information prior to sub-sampling. Then, we showed that double-digestion and bleach treatment of shell powder prior to silica-based DNA extraction improves shell DNA recovery, also suggesting that DNA is protected in preservation niches within ancient shells. Finally, all layers that compose Mytilus shells, i.e., the nacreous (aragonite) and prismatic (calcite) carbonate layers, with or without the outer organic layer (periostracum) proved to be valuable DNA reservoirs, with aragonite appearing as the best substrate for genomic analyses. Our work contributes to the understanding of long-term molecular preservation in biominerals and we anticipate that resulting recommendations will be helpful for future efficient and responsible genomic analyses of ancient mollusc shells.

Waste snail shells-derived mixed oxide catalyst for efficient transesterification of vegetable oil: Towards sustainable biodiesel production

This study explores the transesterification process of soybean oil for the production of biodiesel, utilizing an innovative mixed oxide catalyst obtained from discarded snail shells powder. The catalyst synthesis involved a thermal treatment at 900°C for 120 min, predominantly yielding calcium oxide (CaO). In order to evaluate its properties, we carried out a thorough characterization using various analytical techniques. The study explores the impact of crucial variables on the transesterification reaction, such as reaction time (from 30 to 150 min), methanol-to-oil ratio (from 3:1–18:1), and catalyst concentration (from 0.5% to 4% by weight). Optimal conditions emerged with a 90-min reaction time, a 12:1 methanol-to-oil ratio, and a 2% catalyst loading, yielding an impressive biodiesel conversion rate of approximately 93%. The validity of biodiesel conversion was confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1 H NMR). The resultant biodiesel exhibited highly favorable characteristics, including an acid value of 0.85 mg of KOH/g, a density of 886.8 kg/m3, and a viscosity of 4.6 mm2/s. These measurements align with the standards set forth in EN 14214 and ASTM D6751 regarding biodiesel quality. The utilization of waste snail shells powder as a precursor for synthesizing the mixed oxide catalyst presents a promising approach for the sustainable production of biodiesel from soybean oil, offering a sustainable and efficient approach to biofuel production.

159 Concentrations of energy in pistachio shell powder fed to gestating sows and lactating sows

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE), digestible energy (DE), and metabolizable energy (ME) in pistachio shell powder are not different from those in soybean hulls when fed to gestating sows. The second hypothesis was that the ATTD of GE and DE in pistachio shell powder are not different from those in soybean hulls when fed to lactating sows. In Exp. 1, gestating sows (n = 24) were housed in metabolism crates and were fed a corn-based control diet or two diets that included corn and 20% pistachio shell powder or 20% soybean hulls. Sows were fed the experimental diets for 13 d with feces and urine being quantitatively collected for 4 d, after a 6 d of adaptation. Concentrations of DE and ME were calculated. In Exp. 2, lactating sows (n = 24) were housed in farrowing crates and fed a diet based on corn and soybean meal (SBM) or two diets that contained corn, SBM and 20% of either pistachio shell powder or soybean hulls. All diets contained corn and SBM at a ratio of 2.87:1.00 and 0.40% TiO2 as the digestibility marker. Lactating sows were allowed ad libitum access to the experimental diets and feces were collected for 6 d after a 7 d of adaptation to the diets. The DE in each diet and in pistachio shell powder and soybean hulls was calculated. Each experiment was conducted as a randomized complete block design and each experiment used two blocks of 12 sows, with 4 sows per diet in each block. The statistical model in both experiments included diet or ingredient as the fixed effect and block and replicate within block as the random effects. Results from Exp. 1 indicated that the ATTD of GE and DE and ME on an as-fed basis as well as on a dry matter basis were less (P < 0.05) in pistachio shell powder compared with corn and soybean hulls and DE and ME in soybean hulls were less (P < 0.05) than in corn (Table 1). Results from Exp. 2 indicated that the ATTD of GE and DE in pistachio shell powder were less (P < 0.05) than in soybean hulls. In conclusion, pistachio shell powder has a high concentration of fiber and energy digestibility and concentrations of energy in pistachio shell powder were, therefore, less than in soybean hulls when fed to gestating or lactating sows, but gestating sows appear to be better at digesting pistachio shell powder than lactating sows. This is likely due to the restricted feed intake of gestating sows that allows more time for nutrient and energy digestion and absorption in the intestinal tract compared with lactating sows.

Characterization and utilization of cacao shell powder as a biofiller in natural rubber composite

The cacao shell, a by-product of the chocolate industry, is considered a waste and is normally discarded. This work aims to study the feasibility of using cacao shell powder (CSP) as a biofiller in rubber applications. The CSP was initially prepared, characterized, and incorporated into natural rubber (NR) at different loadings. Its reinforcement was compared with calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and carbon black (CB). The results showed that CSP had a relatively large average particle size (∼152 μm) and, thus, a very small specific surface area (4.5 m2/g). It mostly consisted of organic substances like cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, proteins, etc. When incorporated into NR, both scorch time and optimal cure time decreased due to the existence of nitrogen-containing compounds, whereas hardness and modulus increased gradually with increasing CSP loading due to the dilution effect. At a given loading, CSP showed shorter scorch and cure times with greater hardness and modulus than CaCO3, indicating its greater cure activation ability and higher reinforcement magnitude. However, its reinforcement was far lower than that of carbon black. The maximum tensile strength was found at 30 phr of CSP loading, with a value of approximately 19.2 MPa, which was about 3% higher than that of CaCO3 but approximately 19% lower than CB. The findings suggest that, like other inert fillers, CSP can be employed for cost-reduction purposes in many applications where exceptionally high strengths are not essential, such as rubber bands, rubber flooring, rubber mats for livestock, etc.