Eggshells are also revolutionizing bioplastics as a biobased filler and biodegradability enhancer. When blended with biopolymers like polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), starch, or chitosan, eggshell particles (10 – 70% by weight) improve material performance:

  • Mechanical properties;
  • Barrier properties;
  • Biodegradability.

Eggshells in Bioplastics

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Eggshells in polymers

Globally, where plastic waste remains a critical issue, eggshells in bioplastics could replace single-use plastics in packaging and agricultural films. The Dutch government’s push for a 50% reduction in virgin plastic use by 2030 aligns with this innovation.

Eggshells in products

Repurposing eggshells into  bioplastics delivers key sustainability benefits: waste diversion (reducing landfill use and methane emissions), carbon footprint reduction (eggshell processing emits 60-70% less CO₂ vs. limestone or synthetic fillers), resource conservation (1 ton of eggshells replaces 1 ton of mined limestone), and non-toxicity (biocompatible for safe disposal or medical use). 

ColorFabb and Helian Polymers are making strategic investments in next-generation manufacturing technologies to significantly increase the utilization of biogenic eggshells in biopolymer compounds. This unique and highly specialized infrastructure is unparalleled in the Dutch compounding sector, positioning the partnership at the forefront of sustainable material innovation.

With these advanced capabilities, we are confident in accelerating the adoption of circular raw materials and look forward to delivering groundbreaking results that contribute to a more sustainable plastics industry.

Advanced tool in PPG

“At ColorFabb, we are driven by innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability. By 2027, we envision ColorFabb as a global leader in high-performance 3D printing filaments, with a distinctive footprint in bio-based materials such as PHA. Our participation in the Print the Planet Green (PPG) project exemplifies this vision—merging advanced materials science with the urgency of circular economy solutions.

In the Netherlands, we’re proud to upcycle local eggshell waste into next-generation, eco-friendly PHA filaments. This initiative not only reduces reliance on petrochemical plastics but showcases how regional waste streams can power sustainable innovation on a global scale. Through our pioneering efforts in speed, quality, and affordability in 3D printing, ColorFabb is proving that sustainability and cutting-edge technology are not mutually exclusive—but mutually reinforcing. ”

Ruud Rouleaux

Owner, colorFabb B.V.