Alternative Dustless Chalk Made of Green Mussels (Perna Viridis) and Recycled Paper

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background of the Study

Traditional chalk in classroom settings is an essential part of the teaching and learning

process. However, despite its benefits, the pervasive use of traditional chalk has raised concerns

and challenges over the dust it produces and the indoor air quality among students and teachers.

Traditional chalk tends to generate significant dust during writing, and in a city that is already

challenged by urban pollution and traffic emissions, reducing air pollution is a local priority.

Harnessing green mussel shells and combining them with recycled paper, the

development of a dustless chalk alternative that not only curbs chalk dust but also promotes

sustainable resource management can be made possible. In 2021, Magnabosco et al. reported a

study that showed seashells, predominantly made of calcium carbonate, can be processed and

made into more high-end functional materials of immense value. Moreover, Alfolabi et. al.

(2024) investigated the incorporation of cellulosic fibers from recycled paper with calcium

carbonate fillers to create composite materials. Their findings indicated that the porous structure

of recycled paper fibers supports the even distribution of calcium carbonate, which may

contribute to achieving a refined texture and potentially enhance certain structural and visual

characteristics. This will allow the utilization of two components likely feasible and provide

opportunity for analysis and evaluation.

 Furthermore, the researchers want to emphasize the importance of circular economy

practices in addressing waste management challenges in Zamboanga City. Making use of green

mussel shells as an alternative to dustless chalk aligns with these initiatives by transforming an

industrial waste, such as recycled paper, into a valuable product. Similarly, the study of Azarian

& Sutapun (2022) highlighted the growing interest in using eggshells and seashells for making

eco-friendly chalk. This not only benefits areas like seashell chalk production but also aligns

with the broader goal of reducing waste and being more sustainable. One notable application

highlighted in the review is the use of calcium carbonate derived from eggshells and seashells in

the production of seashell chalk, which aligns with the concept of repurposing waste shells for

valuable biomaterials, contributing to sustainability in the education sector. In doing so, the

research supports sustainable development and reduces reliance on imported or mined raw

materials—a critical factor for a city that is actively pursuing environmental protection measures.

In addition, the use of recycled paper in the composite not only minimizes paper waste but also

reinforces the eco-friendly profile of the final product. Paper, made from cellulose fibers,

provides a natural binding effect when mixed with water, thus allowing it to hold its shape when

combined with other materials like Plaster of Paris or clay. Moreover, Paper fibers are porous

and help mimic the writing characteristics of traditional chalk.

One of the potential solutions is the use of green mussels, which is readily available and

often underutilized. This possesses a composition rich in calcium carbonate, which is a key

component of traditional chalk. Coupled with recycled paper, a readily available and

environmentally responsible material. This research seeks to explore the feasibility and efficacy

of incorporating these materials into a dustless chalk formulation, evaluating its writing
performance, environmental impact, and overall practicality as a replacement for traditional

chalk.

1. 2. Statement of the problem

Although traditional chalk is widely used in educational settings, it generates excessive

dust that can negatively impact indoor air quality and pose health risks to students and teachers.

This issue is particularly concerning and relevant in areas with high urban pollution, such as

Zamboanga City. Hence, minimizing airborne pollutants is a priority, and interventions are

necessary, whether on a small or large scale. While dustless chalk alternatives exist, many are

costly and rely on synthetic components that may not be environmentally friendly.

This study aims to develop an alternative dustless chalk using green mussel (Perna

viridis) shells and recycled paper (which has cellulose fibers) to explore their feasibility as

sustainable and effective components. The study also seeks to assess the writing performance,

durability, dust production, and overall practicality of this formulation. Additionally, it examines

the environmental benefits of utilizing these waste materials, aligning with sustainability efforts

and circular economy principles.

To address these concerns, the following questions are to be answered:

1. What are the physical and chemical properties of the alternative chalk compared to

traditional chalk?

2. How does the proposed alternative chalk perform in terms of writing clarity, texture,

durability, and dust production?

3. How effective is the alternative chalk in reducing airborne dust levels compared to

traditional chalk?

1.3. Scope and limitation of the study

This study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of an alternative dustless chalk

made from green mussel shells and recycled paper. The scope of the study includes analysis of

the alternative chalk’s physical properties, assessment of its writing performance, and

measurement of dust production compared to commercial chalk products.

The study is also limited to the use of green mussel shells as a calcium carbonate source

and recycled paper as a binder only. Other potential additives, such as color pigments or

preservatives, are not included in this research. Moreover, while the research will evaluate the

feasibility of production, it will not cover large-scale manufacturing or market adoption. The

testing will be conducted in a controlled environment, and external factors such as humidity and

long-term storage effects will not be extensively analyzed.

1.4. Significance of the study

This study aims to provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly

alternative to traditional chalk. Moreover, it also aims to help and encourage people to create

environmentally safer chalks that are innovative and resourceful. In this way, the benefits of this

study are not isolated to one target audience only but many others. This study aims to be

beneficial to the following:

Community – The study contributes to waste reduction and promotes responsible resource

management that supports local environmental sustainability efforts by utilizing green mussel

shells and recycled paper.

Education Sector – The product of the study, the alternative chalk, will provide teachers and

students with a dustless writing tool. This will help improve classroom air quality and reduce

potential respiratory issues caused by traditional chalk dust.

Environmental Conservation – The study supports the circular economy by repurposing waste

materials and minimizing landfill contributions. This will also decrease reliance on mined

calcium carbonate, which has environmental extraction costs.

Small-Scale Entrepreneurs – The development of an alternative chalk using readily available

and low-cost materials presents opportunities for local entrepreneurs to produce and distribute

eco-friendly chalk, which will contribute to economic opportunities in sustainable industries.

Future Researchers – This study serves as a foundation for further research into eco-friendly

classroom materials. Future researchers can build upon this study by testing different binding

agents, improving the formulation, or expanding the scope to include commercial viability,

large-scale production, and long-term durability assessments.

 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Seashell Chalk as a Sustainable Material

In 2021, Magnabosco et al. reported a study that showed seashells, predominantly made

of calcium carbonate, can be processed and made into more high-end functional materials of

immense value. Seashells are also an aquaculture operation's waste product. Producing the shells,

which are millions of tonnes a year, is an environmental issue. The report highlights the potential

for seashells to be resource-available and particularly the potential of them being a source of

advanced functional materials, such as seashell chalk. Referring to seashells as "a waste material

from aquaculture" is an uptake of sustainability. Recycling the waste into a commodity of value,

such as chalk, eliminates its impact on the environment and fosters resource conservation.

According to Brendan McCarron's 2023 research, the objective of his research was to

develop a low-cost, universally applicable method for the application of crushed Quahog

seashells—a naturally occurring porous medium—to water treatment processes. The objective

was not to release carbon into the atmosphere, as with activated charcoal, but to use a naturally

occurring porous medium throughout the earth and, at the same time, act as a carbon sink. The

study describes several benefits that the application of seashells has for the environment,

including that as a carbon sink, the action is in line with the theme of environmentally friendly

practice in the release of calcium into the ecosystem, potentially benefiting ecosystems and

minimizing the harmful effects of practices such as salt-deicing, and supporting sustainable

aquaculture and bivalve development. The 2020 RSC Advances research explores the recycling

of green mussel shells (Perna viridis) to generate high-purity calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) for
sustainable material utilization. The study points out that green mussel shells are composed of

approximately 95–96% CaCO₃, a proportion comparable to the near-pure calcium carbonate in

traditional chalk derived from sedimentary rocks. This chemical equivalence indicates that, with

proper processing, mussel shells can be utilized as an environmentally friendly alternative to

standard raw materials.

According to research conducted by L.M. Garcia, A.C. Sanchez, R.C. Moreno, and M.C.

Rodriguez (2022) and published in the Cleaner Production Journal, it is revealed that the

sustainable sourcing of seashells is a fundamental component in minimizing environmental

impact and ensuring sustainability in chalk production. The authors recommend that collection

procedures, such as storm-stranded shells gathering or agreements with aquaculture farms, be

given priority first. This is a relief to the wild populations and decreases the volume of extraction

from natural resources, thereby preserving marine ecosystems. Secondly, the use of circular

economy via waste seashell reuse from the seafood sector is in conformity with responsible

management of resources and promotes environmentally friendly approaches in the industry.

Comparative Chemical Composition of Chalk and Green Mussel Shells

Traditional chalk is mainly composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), a naturally

occurring mineral that occurs abundantly in sedimentary rocks like limestone. Pure chalk is up to

99% CaCO₃, which mainly consists of the microscopic shells of marine organisms like

foraminifera and coccolithophores. In addition, it has been revealed that the shells of green

mussels (Perna viridis) are composed of approximately 95–96% calcium carbonate by weight, a

composition significant to the structural stability of the shells (Li et al., 2022). The close

chemical similarity of these mussel shells to traditional chalk suggests that processed mussel
shells would be an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chalk. Through the use of biological

wastes like mussel shells, the process not only minimizes the environmental expense associated

with traditional mining but also promotes sustainable resource consumption and circular

economy-related activities.

Life Cycle Carbon Footprint Analysis of Seashell Chalk vs. Traditional Chalk Production

Based on research by L.M. Garcia, A.C. Sanchez, M.C. Moreno, and R.C. Rodriguez

(2022), seashell chalk has a much lower carbon footprint than traditional chalk. The benefit is

mainly due to less mining and transportation involved in the harvesting of seashells. Seashell

chalk has been proven by researchers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70%, thus

representing an environmentally appropriate option for schools. This supports sustainable

resource management principles and promotes the use of environmental-friendly products in

schools.

Azarian and Sutapun (2022) explain the rising application of eggshells and seashells as

sustainable sources of calcium carbonate for the production of sustainable chalk. Their research

emphasizes the significance of environmentally friendly extraction methods, which lower the

dependency on mined calcium carbonate while solving waste management problems

simultaneously. Through the transformation of waste shells into valuable biomaterials, their

method fosters a circular economy and supports sustainability in educational materials. One of

the primary applications of their work is the incorporation of seashell-derived calcium carbonate

in chalk, which provides a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable solution with reduced

airborne dust and lower environmental impact. Their review also identifies the necessity to

assess the whole life cycle of chalk production to ensure the procurement of raw materials and
manufacturing processes align with green production strategies. In summary, their work shows

how waste-derived materials can be a fundamental factor in supporting both sustainability and

innovation in education.

Sustainable Sourcing of Seashells and Potential Applications

In the study by Niko E. Putra, Jie Zhou, and Amir A. Zadpoor (2023), seashells are

highlighted as a significant source of biomaterials, aside from bone tissue engineering. The

central emphasis is on utilizing seashells to produce calcium carbonate, a key component in the

manufacture of chalk. This emphasis demonstrates the versatile nature of seashells as a green

resource, with resultant applications reaching as far as mundane things in life like chalk.

Furthermore, the authors emphasize initial research concerning seashell-based materials,

highlighting their potential for chalk production through the application of additive

manufacturing (AM) methods. By making the seashells a specific point of emphasis in this

instance, they illustrate the potential for recycling waste materials in common products, which is

in line with larger sustainability goals. This research on seashells as a material source for chalk is

just one instance of how they can provide sustainable alternatives for materials.

Health and Safety Considerations and Potential Health Risks in Chalk Production

Based on the studies by W. Sun, K. M. Østergaard Boisen, Anton A. Hansen, and S. K.

Vølund (2023), the researchers examine the possibilities of human toxicity exposure from the use

of different types of chalk and examine their chemical composition. The study is concerned with

the possible health consequences in the case of inhalation or ingestion of dust, especially with the

involvement of metals like chromium, nickel, and arsenic in some types of chalk.
 As per research conducted by Pathalijia Topić Popović, Vanesa Loren, Ivanćica-Strunjak

Perovic, and Rozelindra Čoz-ReKovac (2023), the global production of crab, shrimp, lobster,

oyster, clam, scallop, and mussel shells waste is around 8 million tons every year and is usually

wasted in landfills or dumped at sea. The shells, though, have recycling potential to be used as

raw materials in numerous industries, including construction, agriculture, medicine, chemical

industry, cosmetics, food and animal feed, and conservation. This research examines waste

management and the prospect of using crustacean and mollusk shells with a focus on

sustainability and energy requirements.

Chalk dust, regardless of being 'dusting' or 'non-dusting' chalk, is a serious health risk.

'Dusting' chalk produces fine dust that is easy to inhale, whereas 'non-dusting' chalk, though

heavier in nature, still produces dust but with a high concentration of chemicals. Studies have

established that harmful exposure to chalk dust is related to a vast array of health complications,

thus the necessity to seek a safer alternative. The study exclusively focused on the human

exposure to dangerous chalk dust in the process of teaching, using a structured questionnaire to

obtain responses from participants of all ages. The early study aimed at understanding the

varying perceptions and alleged health complications resulting from exposure to chalk dust. The

survey findings revealed a range of negative effects on health post-exposure to chalk dust, thus

affirming the likelihood of respiratory and other health-related issues. This study emphasizes the

need for effective control of dust within schools (Roberts and Namachivayam, 2022).

Seashell Chalk Writing Instruments Impact on Consumer Perception

Owuamanam and Cree (2020) highlight the potential of employing recycled bio-calcium

carbonate fillers from eggshells and seashells as polymer composite fillers. The success in tensile
strength, flexural strength, and impact toughness speaks volumes about the potential of

employing these materials. The application of surface modifiers is highlighted, which highlights

their employment in improving compatibility and hence offers valuable insights into

performance optimization.

Meiqi Cheng, Man Liu, Lirong Chang, Qing Liu, Chunxiao Wang, Le Hu, Ziyue Zhang,

Wanying Ding, Li Chen, Sihan Guo, Zhi Qi, Panpan Pan, Jingdi Chen, Science of The Total

Environment 870, 161950 review (2023) reviews the comprehensive use of marine shells,

highlighting their individual strengths and prospective uses. The research identifies the

constitutive connection between the microstructure, function, and application of marine shells,

providing a background for potential uses in multiple fields, including the manufacture of green

writing products.

Waste Paper Innovation and Integration of Recycled Paper in Eco-Friendly Chalk

In the educational industry, recycled paper is used to manufacture new and innovative

substitutes for conventional chalk, using cellulose fibers to supply binding and humidity control.

Not only does this provide dust-free writing supplies, but it also provides an economical and

environmentally friendly solution for educational institutions and schools (Senarathna et al.,

2023). Overall, modern recycling technologies are found to be capable of turning waste paper

into useful products, thus promoting economic and environmental sustainability.

New recycling technologies have greatly promoted innovative reusing of waste paper in

various industries, including environmentally friendly packaging, construction materials, and

even substitute green chalk formulations. The integration of new waste paper recycling

technologies has led to the production of high-quality secondary cellulose raw materials, which
are central in the production of reusable and biodegradable products. Studies show that recycled

fiber sources account for 25-40% of municipal solid waste (MSW), and their optimal use enables

environmental pollution reduction by the avoidance of landfill waste and air particle emissions

(Senarathna et al., 2023). Additionally, based on the porosity nature of paper fibers, their

incorporation into chalk formulations may help in enhancing moisture absorption, an important

parameter for reducing dust formation during writing. By using waste components, the study not

only promotes a circular economy but also offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly substitute for

conventional chalk, thus reducing reliance on mined calcium carbonate while decreasing

environmental pollution from used paper and shell wastes.

As pointed out by statistics revealed in the "Paper Industry Association White Paper," the

corresponding paper consumption has been estimated to be around 1 million tons, which makes

up around 2.3% of the corrugated and boxboard paper production. Subsequently, the United

Nations Environment Program has come up with numerous solutions and goals geared towards

ensuring sustainability in the world, including the 12th goal—Sustainable Consumption and

Production. It aims to free economic growth from environmental degradation, improve resource

efficiency, enable low-carbon and green economy transition, and encourage sustainable

lifestyles. Paper recycling is one of the most successful solutions to this goal. Recycled paper has

been present in the market for more than three decades. It is one of the best solutions against

environmental degradation as well as against the generation of waste. Recycling reduces the

consumption of new raw materials and can prevent the depletion of potentially valuable material

(Senarathna et al., 2023).

Several research works have examined the possibility of using recycled materials to

develop environmentally friendly chalk compositions. For instance, Alfolabi et al. (2024)
examined the production of composite material using recycled paper cellulosic fibers and

calcium carbonate fillers. Their findings showed that the porous nature of recycled paper fibers

allows for a uniform dispersion of calcium carbonate, producing a smooth finish with improved

mechanical and optical properties. These characteristics are crucial in chalk used in educational

settings, where optimal writing performance and low dust generation are needed. This approach

not only enhances the functional property of chalk but also helps the environment by recycling

waste paper and avoiding the consumption of mined calcium carbonate. Through a combination

of recycled paper with naturally occurring calcium carbonate, green chalk can minimize indoor

air pollution and foster a circular economy and, therefore, serve as a viable alternative to

traditional chalk compositions (Alfolabi et al., 2024).

Additionally, Yılmaz et al. (2021), "Fiber classification, physical and optical properties of

recycled paper," provides valuable information on recycled paper fibers' physical and optical

properties, which relates to the manufacture of alternative dustless chalk using green mussel

shells in combination with recycled paper. The research points out that recycled paper fibers

have binding capabilities and maintain structural strength, and are thus suitable for composite

material use. The study indicates that paper fibers can be effectively recycled three times before

mechanical strength degradation is noticeable. With respect to the green and sustainable

production of chalk, the ability of recycled paper to serve as a binder for calcium carbonate from

green mussel shells finds its roots in the study's finding that recycled fibers do not lose their

adhesive strength even after multiple cycles. The addition of recycled cellulose fibers to chalk

recipes thus not only reduces paper waste but also enhances chalk texture, strength, and

workability. The above findings add credence to alternative chalk being a feasible, affordable

solution for use in schools, all while being eco-friendly (Yılmaz et al., 2021).
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