Preparation and Characterization of Calcium Sources from Golden Apple Snail Shell for Naturally Based Biomaterials

Abstract

The use of biogenic materials to produce naturally based biomaterials has been widely studied. In this study, heavy metal content, phase transformation and physical characterization of Golden Apple Snail shell were investigated for use as a calcium source in the production of naturally based biomaterials. In order to investigate phase transformation, Golden Apple Snail shell was calcined at 600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C and 900 °C. Small amounts of As and Pb were found in raw Golden Apple Snail shell. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3, calcite) and calcium oxide (CaO) phases were observed in Golden Apple Snail shells after calcination at 600 °C and 800 °C. Fine white CaCO3 (calcite) and CaO powders were prepared after calcination of Golden Apple Snail shells. The CaCO3 (calcite phase) was completely transformed into a CaO phase at 800 °C. Phase transformation depended on calcination temperature and time.