Issue 9/2021 - Durian shell successfully transformed into eco-friendly hydrogel cloth

The durian shell was successfully transformed into an environmentally friendly hydrogel cloth

Recently, scientists at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed hydrogel cloth using durian shell as raw material, in addition to low production cost, this adhesive tape is biodegradable, non-toxic and harmless, and more environmentally friendly
than traditional adhesive tape.

Singapore imported 14,300 tons of about 10 million durians in 2017, but only about 1/3 of each durian is edible, and the remaining shell must be incinerated, adding to the environmental burden
.
In order to make use of waste, food scientists at Nanyang Technological University extract high-quality fibers from pulverized durian shells, mix high-quality fibers with glycerin to make soft gels, and then add organic molecules produced by baker's yeast to improve the antibacterial function
of the gel.
2 kg of durian shell can extract 40 grams of pure fiber, which is enough to make about 1600 pieces of adhesive tape
2 cm long and 1 cm wide.

Researchers say tests on animal skin have shown that an antibacterial hydrogel cloth made of durian shells provides antimicrobial protection
for up to 48 hours.
Organic hydrogels can also transmit electrical signals and are used to make flexible technology accessories
such as watch straps that measure heart rate.