In the quest for sustainable and high-performance materials, researchers have turned to an unlikely source: eggshells. A recent study led by Prichaya Waibanthao from the Materials Engineering Department at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand, has unveiled a novel method to enhance the physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of biobased ceramic composites using natural beta-tricalcium phosphate derived from eggshells. The findings, published in the *Journal of Lightweight Materials and Manufacturing* (formerly known as the International Journal of Lightweight Materials and Manufacture), offer promising avenues for medical applications and beyond.
Eggshells, typically discarded in vast quantities, are primarily composed of calcium carbonate with over 98% purity. Waibanthao and her team have harnessed this abundant resource to produce beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-Ca3(PO4)2), a compound known for its biocompatibility and potential use in bone grafts and splints. The researchers further enhanced the material’s properties by incorporating tricalcium silicate cement (C3S), which improves thickening, ductility, and setting properties, facilitating polymerization and solidification through curing and hydration processes.
The breakthrough, however, lies in the addition of soda lime glass powder at varying concentrations. “By embedding soda lime glass powder at different weight percentages, we observed significant improvements in the mechanical and thermal properties of the biobased ceramic composite,” Waibanthao explained. Higher concentrations of soda lime glass powder led to increased compressive strength, reduced water absorption, decreased thermal expansion coefficient, and lowered firing temperature. These enhancements make the composite a viable alternative for medical applications, particularly in bone grafts and splints.
The implications of this research extend beyond the medical field. The energy sector, in particular, could benefit from materials that offer improved thermal and mechanical properties. As the world shifts towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, the utilization of eggshells and other natural resources could pave the way for innovative materials that are both high-performing and environmentally responsible.
“This research not only highlights the potential of eggshells as a sustainable raw material but also demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving technological advancements,” Waibanthao noted. The study’s findings could inspire further exploration into biobased composites, potentially leading to the development of new materials that meet the evolving demands of various industries.
As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the quest for sustainable and high-performance materials remains a top priority. The research led by Prichaya Waibanthao offers a glimpse into the future of materials science, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. With further development and commercialization, this biobased ceramic composite could revolutionize the medical and energy sectors, paving the way for a more sustainable future.