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Biotechnological Applications of Eggshell: Recent Advances
Tamer A E Ahmed1,2, Ling Wu1, Manar Younes1
1Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
|July 23, 2021
Summary
Eggshell waste, primarily calcium carbonate, is increasingly patented for diverse biotechnological uses. Recent patents highlight applications in biomedical, chemical, engineering, and environmental fields, offering sustainable solutions.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Eggshell (ES) waste is a significant byproduct of the egg processing industry, posing disposal challenges.
- ES is mainly composed of calcium carbonate, offering a rich source of valuable compounds.
- Patent activity for ES applications has surged, particularly in the last two decades.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent patents (2015-2020) on biotechnological applications of eggshell waste.
- To summarize diverse applications across biomedical, chemical, engineering, and environmental sectors.
- To highlight emerging trends and future potential for eggshell waste valorization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of patents granted between 2015 and 2020.
- Categorization of applications based on technological domains (biomedical, chemical, engineering, environmental).
- Analysis of trends in eggshell waste utilization.
Main Results:
- Patents cover a wide range of applications, including calcium lactate/phosphate production, plant growth promoters, food processing, biodiesel catalysis, material engineering, nanoparticle production, biomass generation, sludge solubilization, and pollutant adsorption.
- Biomedical applications focus on health-promoting products.
- Environmental technologies include adsorption of heavy metals, organics, nitrogen, fluoride, soil pollutants, and radioactive compounds.
Conclusions:
- Eggshell waste presents a valuable resource for various high-value applications.
- The increasing number of patents signifies growing interest and innovation in eggshell waste valorization.
- Further research into novel approaches and physical platforms is expected to enhance large-scale exploitation of eggshell waste.
