Keywords
paper waste
Kinshasa
quail egg trays
circular economy
biodegradable composites
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction
Kinshasa generates approximately 9,000 metric tons of solid waste daily, while the local poultry sector faces a shortage of suitable biodegradable packaging. This dual challenge highlights the urgent need for sustainable waste valorization strategies.
Purpose
This work is an experimental comparative study evaluating the production of quail egg trays from recycled cellulosic waste under low-technology conditions.
Methods
Paper waste was processed through pulp preparation, sequential bleaching with sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and manual compression molding. Three formulations were tested: untreated pulp (control, F0), pulp reinforced with dissolved expanded polystyrene binder (Isomo, F1), and pulp reinforced with wood sawdust (F2). For each formulation, ten trays (n=10) were produced and tested in triplicate following ISO 5263, ISO 18134-1, and EN 12390 standards. Statistical analysis was performed using R software via one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post-hoc tests at a 95% confidence interval.
Results
The purification stage induced a mass loss of 75±1.2%. Mechanical testing revealed that sawdust-reinforced trays (F2) achieved the highest impact resistance (188.18±8.16 kJ/m2; p<.001), followed by Isomo-based trays (F1: 157.47±8.54 kJ/m2) and binder-free trays (F0: 140.11±8.31 kJ/m2). Hygroscopic analysis revealed that Isomo trays maintained the lowest moisture content (6% after 72 h at 60oC) and exhibited superior thermal stability.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates the technical feasibility of producing biodegradable quail egg trays from recycled paper waste in Kinshasa. Sawdust reinforcement significantly improves mechanical strength, while the Isomo binder enhances thermal and moisture stability. These findings provide a scalable pathway for waste valorization, reduce reliance on plastic packaging in the local poultry supply chain, and contribute to circular economy practices in African megacities.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mungangila, A. G., Nyembo, N. B., Mesongolo, L. C., Ndaywel, N. O., Nsiala, O. G., Biey, M. E.