Content description of the project
The rapid expansion of seafood processing generates millions of tonnes of shrimp shell waste each year. Although usually discarded, these residues are rich in high-value compounds such as chitin, proteins, calcium carbonate, and astaxanthin – a natural antioxidant and red pigment widely used in food, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. Current extraction methods rely on harsh chemicals and energy-intensive treatments, making them environmentally and economically unsustainable.
Shell2Value addresses this challenge by developing a complete and sustainable shrimp shell biorefinery based on deep eutectic solvents (DES), responsive DES, and bio-based aqueous biphasic systems. These green and tunable solvents enable selective extraction and purification of all major shell components while reducing solvent consumption and waste generation. Special attention is given to stabilising astaxanthin, overcoming one of the key limitations of natural colourants.
The process will be optimised at laboratory scale, experimentally scaled up to 30 L, and supported by process simulation, techno-economic analysis, and life cycle sustainability assessment within a Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design framework. By maximising extraction yields and enabling solvent recycling, Shell2Value transforms shrimp shell waste into a valuable renewable resource and contributes to the transition towards circular marine biorefineries.
Link to data in the SICRIS system
Composition of the project team
At the National Institute of Chemistry, the project group includes:
52995 dr. Filipa A. Andre Vicente
26222 Urška Kavčič
31996 dr. Ana Kroflič
39350 dr. Anže Prašnikar
29336 dr. Ilja Gasan Osojnik Črnivec
29418 dr. Maja Čič
At the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Slovenia, the project group includes:
33679 dr. Annamaria Vujanović
57403 Jan Puhar
