Application of pistachio shell waste in composites, nanocomposites, and carbon electrode fabrication: A review

This article reviews previous studies on the application of pistachio shells in composite and nanocomposite structures, as well as the manufacturing of carbon electrodes and practical implications and environmental Issues. Composite structures are examined in terms of thermoplastic-based, thermoset-based, and bio-composite parts and the methods of making carbon electrodes are discussed in terms of the pistachio shell pyrolysis process and the application of carbon electrodes made from pistachio shell. The results indicate that pistachio shell composites have excellent mechanical properties and could be a viable alternative to traditional reinforcement materials. The high lignin and cellulose content in pistachio shells make them suitable as a reinforcing material in composites, while the abundance of natural silica nanoparticles in the shells make them an attractive candidate for fabricating of nanocomposites. Pistachio shell-based activated carbon has been used in supercapacitors, electrical double-layer capacitors, and electrochemiluminescence systems owing to its chemical stability and improved performance. Moreover, the usage of pistachio shells as a reinforcement material could help reduce the environmental impact of food packaging by valorizing the shells in a sustainable manner. However, further research is needed to optimize the manufacturing process and explore the potential of pistachio shells in composite and nanocomposite applications.