Scientists turn seafood waste into powerful CO2 adsorbent material

Researchers at the University of Sharjah in the UAE have developed an innovative method to convert shrimp waste—specifically shells, heads, and guts—into activated carbon capable of capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂). This process addresses two major environmental challenges simultaneously: managing the vast amounts of seafood waste generated globally (up to eight million tons annually) and mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The shrimp waste, sourced from Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah and originally from Oman, undergoes a multi-step treatment involving pyrolysis to create biochar, followed by acid treatment, chemical activation, and ball milling to produce a highly effective and stable CO₂ adsorbent. Beyond carbon capture, the activated carbon derived from shrimp waste has versatile applications including air and water purification, solvent recovery, gold extraction, and certain medical uses. The researchers emphasize that this approach exemplifies a circular economy by transforming problematic waste into a valuable resource, enhancing resource efficiency and sustainability. The study, published in the journal Nanos