Preparation and Characterization of Biocomposite Films Incorporating Activated Carbon From Agricultural Waste Walnut...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Sustainable Materials

Background:

• Growing demand for biodegradable and sustainable materials drives interest in natural polymer composites.
• Natural polymers like carboxymethylcellulose and sodium alginate offer potential for eco-friendly applications.
• Valorization of waste materials, such as walnut shells, is crucial for sustainable development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop thin biocomposite films using carboxymethylcellulose, sodium alginate, and walnut shell-derived activated carbon (ACWS).
• To investigate the effects of incorporating ACWS (0-2% by weight) on the structural, thermal, electrical, and morphological properties of the biocomposite films.
• To assess the potential of ACWS as an additive for enhancing the performance of biodegradable films.

Main Methods:

• Activated carbon from walnut shells (ACWS) was prepared via chemical activation with zinc chloride and thermal treatment.
• Biocomposite films were fabricated with varying ACWS concentrations.
• Characterization techniques included Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), electrical conductivity measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX).

Main Results:

• FTIR confirmed the compatibility of carboxymethylcellulose, sodium alginate, and ACWS.
• TGA indicated increased thermal stability with higher ACWS concentrations, peaking in ash content at 1 wt% ACWS.
• DSC showed no significant changes in thermal transitions.
• Electrical conductivity was maximized at 0.5 wt% ACWS.
• SEM and EDX confirmed homogeneous distribution of ACWS within the polymer matrix.

Conclusions:

• Walnut shell-derived activated carbon (ACWS) can be effectively incorporated into carboxymethylcellulose and sodium alginate biocomposite films.
• ACWS enhances the thermal stability and electrical conductivity of the biodegradable films.
• These findings highlight ACWS as a promising additive for improving the performance of sustainable biocomposite materials.