HARNESSING EGGSHELLS FOR SUSTAINABLE BIOPLASTIC FABRICATION

Abstract

The growing global demand for plastic products has created an urgent need for the development of sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. One promising approach is the utilization of natural waste materials, such as eggshells, for bioplastic production. Eggshells are an abundant byproduct of the food industry and are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which can be leveraged as a valuable feedstock for bioplastic fabrication. This study investigated the feasibility of converting eggshells into a biodegradable bioplastic material. This study summarized research findings related to eggshell-based bioplastics, including their mechanical properties, thermal stability, biodegradability, and overall contribution to sustainable material development. The outlined methods described the process of converting eggshells into bioplastic, providing a framework for further experimentation and refinement based on specific application requirements and environmental considerations. The results showed that eggshell-based bioplastics exhibit promising mechanical properties comparable to conventional plastics. Thermal analysis revealed adequate stability under typical usage conditions. Additionally, biodegradability assessments highlighted the environmental benefits of eggshell-based bioplastics, offering a viable solution to plastic pollution. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts in sustainable material development and waste valorization by emphasizing the potential of eggshell waste as a valuable resource for bioplastic production. This study presents a sustainable approach to the valorization of eggshell waste while contributing to the development of eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. The findings highlight the potential of harnessing eggshells as a renewable resource for the fabrication of sustainable bioplastic materials.