Biocomposite Using Cellulosic Waste Material and Eggshell for Its Application in the Reduction of Water Pollution

Abstract

This study explores the synthesis and application of a novel biocomposite derived from cellulosic waste material and eggshells for mitigating water pollution. Biocomposite production and application are notable breakthroughs in the replacement of nonbiodegradable, petroleum-based materials. Biowaste resulting from food processing has long been one of the most unutilized sources from which value-added products can be produced. Extracting valuable elements from it reduces trash disposal problems while also providing useful material for a variety of purposes. Concurrently, eggshells, often discarded as waste, contain calcium carbonate, offering potential as an eco-friendly additive. Through an innovative approach, the biocomposite was developed by blending processed cellulosic waste with powdered eggshells using a biodegradable binder. Onion peel waste is produced is a major industrial waste. Cellulose is a biopolymer that is abundant in nature and has excellent mechanical properties and high strength, making it an effective adsorbent for removing heavy metals and dyes from water. Cellulose was extracted from waste onion peels through various processes. This cellulose was used in the formation of a biocomposite in which PLA is used as a matrix phase. This cellulose-based membrane is used for wastewater treatment. The exceptional qualities of leftover eggshells have drawn a lot of attention because of their chemical makeup and biodegradable characteristics, which make them an excellent option for treating wastewater. An activated carbon is synthesized from the eggshells having strong catalytic activity used for remediations of dyes from the water. This is a sustainable approach to reducing water pollution by utilizing agricultural by-products in a new alternative way.