Eco-Friendly Wall Cladding Panels from Recycled Fishing Gear and Clamshell Waste

Abstract

Eco-friendly wall cladding panels were developed from fishing industry waste by incorporating discarded ropes, wood fibers from lobster cages, and clamshell powder. Four panel formulations were investigated using MAPP and MAPE coupling agents: FRW-M (97% fishing rope), 30WF-M (67% rope with 30% wood fibers), 30CS-M (67% rope with 30% clamshell powder), and a hybrid 15CS15WF-M (67% rope with 15% each of wood fibers and clamshell powder). A DSC analysis revealed that clamshell powder addition reduced melting temperatures and crystallinity, while wood fiber incorporation led to slight increases in melting temperatures. The hybrid formulation exhibited enhanced crystallization temperatures despite lower overall crystallinity. A dynamic mechanical analysis showed an 85% improvement in storage modulus for the hybrid panel, with flexural testing demonstrating a 202% increase in modulus and 20% increase in strength. SEM-EDS analysis confirmed improved filler dispersion and interfacial adhesion in the hybrid formulation. Water absorption was lowest in FRW-M and highest in 30WF-M, while burning rate tests showed 30CS-M and 30WF-M as the best and worst performers, respectively. The hybrid formulation emerged as the optimal solution, combining enhanced mechanical properties with improved water resistance and fire retardancy, presenting a viable sustainable alternative for wall cladding applications.