Pistachio Shells
As a natural and recyclable raw material, pistachio peel is used in several different industries andapplications. In the following, the different uses ofpistachio peel are mentioned:
1. Artificial Microparticle Replacement:- Cosmetic industry: Synthetic microparticles, usually made from plastic, are used in cosmetic products such as scrubs and exfoliating creams. These microparticles contribute to environmental pollution due to their lack of decomposition in nature. As a natural substitute, pistachio peel can act as a mild abrasive while not harming the environment. With it, manufacturers can switch to green and sustainable formulations.
2. Renewable Alternative to Fossil Fuels:
- Energy industry: As a bio-source, pistachio shells can play a role in the production of biogas and biofuels. The biogas produced from the decomposition of pistachio shells can be used to provide energy for electricity and heat generation. This process helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions.
3. Soil drainage:
- Agriculture: Due to its porous and light structure, pistachio shells can act as an excellent drainage material in heavy, clayey soils. This property helps improve soil aeration and water absorption and helps prevent root rot in plants.
4. Mulch for Plants:
- Horticulture and agriculture: Mulching with pistachio shells helps to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation. Also, this mulch can regulate soil temperature and be effective in preventing weed growth. Pistachio husk mulch is especially used in fruit orchards and greenhouses.
5. Reduce water pollution:
- Water treatment industry: Pistachio peel can be used as a natural adsorbent in water treatment processes. It can absorb mercury and other heavy pollutants and help reduce groundwater and surface water pollution.
6. Prevent snails:
- Agriculture and horticulture: Pistachio peels can be placed around plants as a natural barrier to prevent snails and other pests. By doing so, farmers can use fewer chemicals and pesticides.
7. Biogas production:
- Renewable energy industry: Biogas can be produced by decomposing pistachio shells under anaerobic conditions. This gas can be used as an energy source in biogas power plants, to generate electricity and heat, and is known as a clean fuel.
8. Preparation of Activated Carbon:
- Filtration and filter industry: Pistachio shells can be converted into activated carbon, which is used in water and air purification, and in the production of various filters. Due to its high level of absorption, activated carbon can help clean up pollutants and odors.
9. MDF & Chipboard Production:
- Wood and furniture industry: Pistachio shell is used as a sustainable raw material in the production of MDF and chipboard boards. Due to their mechanical and environmental properties, these products are very popular in the manufacture of furniture and interior decoration.
10. Conversion to ethanol:
- Fuel industry: pistachio shells can be converted into ethanol during the fermentation process. This ethanol is used as a biofuel, as well as in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
11. Production of biocomposites:
- Composite materials industry: Pistachio peel is used as one of the raw materials in the production of biocomposites, which are a combination of natural and synthetic materials. These biocomposites are used in the automotive, packaging, and construction industries.
12. Alternatives to chemical fertilizers:
- Agriculture: Pistachio peels can be used as a natural and organic source to provide nutrients to plants. This application helps to improve soil quality and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
13. Extraction of active ingredients in pharmaceutical industry:
- Pharmaceutical industry: Research has shown that pistachio peel contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds can be used in the production of medicines and dietary supplements.
14. Tar production:
- Chemical industry: Pistachio shells can be turned into tar through the pyrolysis process. This tar contains phenolic substances that are used in the production of paints, coatings, and other chemicals.
15. Substrate for the production of edible mushrooms:
- Agriculture and food industry: Pistachio peel is used as a substrate for edible mushrooms such as button mushrooms and other types of mushrooms. This substrate can help improve the growth and quality of fungi.