Work

Utilizing Pistachio Shell Biochar to Replace Carbon Black in Natural Rubber Composites

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Biochar is a promising source of renewable carbon that potentially can serve the same purpose as carbon black (sourced from fossil fuels) to reinforce rubber composites. Pistachio shells are a prolific agricultural waste product that is a suitable feedstock for biochar. Unlike many other agricultural residues, pistachio shells are a feedstock that yields biochar with a high concentration of carbon (>80%) and low concentration of ash (<5%), which is necessary to replace carbon black without detrimental effects to the final composite. Filler blends of pistachio shell biochar and carbon black were explored to see how much carbon black could be replaced before composite properties were affected. Pistachio shell biochar was able to replace up to 40% of the carbon black while improving the tensile strength, elongation, and toughness of the rubber composites, but a reduction in modulus was observed. Based on the results obtained, pistachio shell biochar would be suitable for partially replacing carbon black in applications like hoses, seals, belts, and gloves, thereby enabling a new application for this sustainable, agricultural waste product that will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Source: Journal of Composites Science

DOI: 10.3390/jcs8110482

Authors: Steven C. Peterson, Bret J. Chisholm

Institutions: Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research

Language: English

Topic: Thermochemical Biomass Conversion Processes

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,046