Alkali Treatments Unlock Potential of Agro-Waste for Advanced Aluminum Composites
Researchers have systematically compared NaOH and KOH treatments for converting periwinkle shells, plantain stems, and eucalyptus wood ash into aluminum composite reinforcements. The study reveals NaOH produces dense, uniform particles ideal for structural applications, while KOH creates highly porous materials suited for energy storage. These findings provide a scientific framework for valorizing over 1.3 billion tonnes of annual agro-marine waste.
Breakthrough in Sustainable Composite Materials
Scientists have developed optimized alkali treatment methods that transform agricultural and marine waste into high-performance reinforcements for aluminum composites, according to recent research published in Scientific Reports. The systematic comparative study evaluated sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) treatments for three agro-marine ashes: periwinkle shell powder, plantain stem ash, and eucalyptus wood ash. Sources indicate this research addresses critical environmental challenges while advancing sustainable material science.