Document Type
Paper presentation
School Name
Saint Louis College
School Code
ARCH00033
Abstract / Executive Summary
Solid waste management is a global issue. Researchers in La Union, Philippines, investigated the potential of discarded Tirem (Ostreidae) and Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule) shells from seafood restaurants as a sustainable alternative in fiberglass production. The study explored the use of pulverized shells, rich in calcium carbonate, to enhance the strength, durability, and corrosion resistance of fiberglass. Various formulations of shell-based fiberglass were created and tested for water resistance and flexural strength. The findings revealed that increasing the proportion of Tirem shells improved water resistance, while a higher content of both Tirem and Sumbaboy shells enhanced flexural strength. Statistical analysis using a T-test indicated no significant difference in water resistance and flexural strength between the experimental shell-based fiberglass and commercial fiberglass. This suggests that fiberglass made from these shells is a viable alternative with comparable performance. The researchers propose that this shell-based fiberglass could be utilized in different industries due to its flexural strength and water-resistant properties.The researchers recommend future researchers to explore other seashell types, optimize the epoxy-to-shell ratio for better curing and performance, and investigate heat resistance, translucence, and weight reduction. This innovative approach offers environmental and economic benefits by transforming waste into a valuable material for various industries.
Keywords:
Tirem (Ostreidae), Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule), water resistance, flexural strength, fiberglass
Tirem (Ostreidae) Shells and Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule) Shells as Fiberglass
Solid waste management is a global issue. Researchers in La Union, Philippines, investigated the potential of discarded Tirem (Ostreidae) and Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule) shells from seafood restaurants as a sustainable alternative in fiberglass production. The study explored the use of pulverized shells, rich in calcium carbonate, to enhance the strength, durability, and corrosion resistance of fiberglass. Various formulations of shell-based fiberglass were created and tested for water resistance and flexural strength. The findings revealed that increasing the proportion of Tirem shells improved water resistance, while a higher content of both Tirem and Sumbaboy shells enhanced flexural strength. Statistical analysis using a T-test indicated no significant difference in water resistance and flexural strength between the experimental shell-based fiberglass and commercial fiberglass. This suggests that fiberglass made from these shells is a viable alternative with comparable performance. The researchers propose that this shell-based fiberglass could be utilized in different industries due to its flexural strength and water-resistant properties.The researchers recommend future researchers to explore other seashell types, optimize the epoxy-to-shell ratio for better curing and performance, and investigate heat resistance, translucence, and weight reduction. This innovative approach offers environmental and economic benefits by transforming waste into a valuable material for various industries.
