Mollusk Shell-Based Adhesive as Mortar

Abstract

The study aims to determine the feasibility of using mollusk shell based adhesive as a substitute for mortar.

The mollusk shell-based adhesive was made from combining powdered mollusk shells and tackifier in an elastomer and toluene mixture. Different adhesives were made using variated concentrations of the two tackifiers (sodium silicate and polyvinyl acetate) and two elastomers (neoprene WHV and neoprene AG). Randomly chosen samples from each combination were tested for shear strength at the
Standards and Testing Division of the Department of Science and Technology (STD, ITDI, DOST Bicutan).

Introduction

Mollusks are consumed as food or used in pearl production. But once the mollusk meat is eaten or the pearl removed, their shells become a nonusable waste product in abundance. They serve no useful purpose, yet require removal as garbage.

The success of this research would then lead to several developments. First, the discovery of a cheaper construction material in the form of mollusk-based adhesive. Mortar is the very expensive ingredient that bonds brick, stone, tile, or concrete blocks into a structure. Second, the creation of a source of revenue and employment. Third, the lessening of garbage. This makes the mollusk a potentially valuable and readily available source of raw material.

Selected References

Kraidman, Gary. Mollusk Shells or Shell Proteins in Adhesives, Rubber, Pharmaceutical, etc. Spirit of Enterprise, The 1993 Rolex Awards. Switzerland: Buri International, 1993. Thorpe and Whitely. Adhesives and Adhesive Action.
Thorpels Dictionary of Applied Chemistry I. London: Longmans, Green, and Co. Ltd., 1945.

Materials & Equipment

Further clarification of the procedures and results should be directed to the researchers and adviser.

Researchers:
Maria Antonia G. Arroyo
Katrina Anna P. Macias
Karlo Emir M. Tayzon
Maria Abigail D. Lorenzo

Adviser:
Miss Juanita Cruz
Philippine Science High School
Quezon City