Sustainable hybrid PLA based composites with animal waste fillers for lightweight applications

For valorizing animal waste into high-performance polylactic acid (PLA) composites, this study demonstrates a sustainable pathway for circular biomaterials. This study investigates PLA-based composites reinforced with bio-fillers from chicken feathers (CF), fish scales (FS), and seashells (SS), transforming animal waste into high-performance materials. Mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties were analyzed to evaluate the potential of these composites for sustainable applications. Chicken feather composites (PCF) achieved 4.12% higher tensile strength and rapid biodegradation (8.85% weight loss in 30 days), ideal for short-life products. Fish scale composites (PFS) delivered superior flexural properties (+10.19% strength, +32.39% modulus) with moderate biodegradation (2.16%). Seashell composites (PSS) excelled in thermal stability (T∼d∼ +3.6%, residual mass +101%) and impact resistance (+25.26%), suitable for durable applications. All composites maintained low water absorption (<1%), confirming aqueous suitability. By transforming poultry, fishing, and aquaculture wastes into functional fillers, these composites reduce environmental burdens while enhancing material performance thus offering scalable solutions for packaging, automotive, and construction industries in alignment with circular economy goals.