An Overview of the Applications of Periwinkle (Tympanotonus fuscatus) Shells

Abstract

The waste generated by the periwinkle (Tympanotonus fuscatus) shell cannot be undermined. In coastal communities worldwide, periwinkle is a major source of proteins and other vital minerals in most delicacies. The shells of these aquatic species, notable for their nutrient provision, contribute to environmental degradation because of the indiscriminate disposal. The absence of a proper waste management program leads to the blockage of drainages, resulting in flooding. This study reviews the various avenues by which the Tympanotonus fuscatus shell can be processed and utilized. The review was conducted to synthesize the current body of knowledge in the research area to help present a proper perspective to periwinkle shell utilization. The study showed that periwinkle shell could effectively be utilized directly as a partial replacement for coarse aggregates and cement in concrete, and in the adsorption of heavy metals from wastewater. The shell was also a suitable replacement for asbestos in brakepad production. Perspectives for future research in periwinkle shell utilization as raw materials for the production of synthetic stones and ceramic mugs, calcium supplements, fluid loss control additive for drilling mud, adsorbents for poisonous and odorous gas capture were identified. Other areas of future research include the use of periwinkle shells as gravel pack and fluid proppants alternatives in oil and gas wells and as replacements for molecular sieves in natural gas conditioning and biogas upgrading.

Proximate, minerals, carotenoid and trypsin inhibitor composition in the exoskeletons of seafood gastropods and their potentials for sustainable circular utilisation

“…The major mineral in natural periwinkle shells as obtained in our study is basically CaCO 3 , with mean contents of 57.20 ± 2.46 mg/kg, 59.50 ± 3.23 mg/kg, and 62.36 ± 1.56 mg/kg in T. fuscatus , P. aurita, and T. coronata, respectively, as shown in Table 5 . The obtained results are in consonance with the typical mineral compositions registered by Orji et al 57 in their findings. Periwinkle shell grains comprising mineral components of over 85% are sufficient for the production of sandpaper abrasives 58 .…”

Production of Clay-Based Water Filter Using Biomass of Bacillus Subtillis, Sawdust, Activated Charcoal, Periwinkle and Snail Shell as Additives

“…Charcoal was also used as a burnout material to create finer pores in the ceramic and to possibly introduce activated carbon into the filter to serve as platform for the adsorption and removal of trace and heavy metals from the water [23]. Periwinkles and snail shell were added to introduce calcium silicate for the removal of heavy metals from the water [24]. The ceramic filters were coated with silver nitrate precipitated Bacillus Subtillis, a well-studied antimicrobial agent, that has no effect on the taste, color, and odor of the treated water [25].…”

Development of heterogeneous catalyst from assorted periwinkle snail shells for sustainable biodiesel synthesis

“…The periwinkle snail has a robust shell. The mantle contains cells responsible for producing an organic matrix mineralizing with calcium carbonate providing the shell with complex structure properties [35]. Many industries are already utilizing the calcium carbonate property such as the glass industry, construction industry to enhance the properties of concrete, water treatment, and the farming industry has managed to convert the calcium carbonate into poultry feed which provides calcium to the poultry.…”