Valorization of exotic fruit residues: Sustainable green dielectric and insulating materials for energy and waste management solutions

Abstract

This study explores the potential of hydrochars derived from locally available exotic fruits (mango, mangosteen, african oil palm, and moringa) as sustainable dielectric and insulating materials, addressing waste management challenges in developing countries like Ecuador. Through experimental design optimization, we investigate the electrical properties of these hydrochars. Results demonstrate high dielectric constants (relative permittivity 4.35–6.29) and low electrical conductivities (loss tangent 0.004–0.025) across all samples, with properties influenced by fruit type, hydrothermal carbonization conditions, and post-treatment processes. Moringa husk emerges as particularly promising, achieving optimal values at 175 °C and 1h, effectively balancing performance and energy consumption. Other materials show desirable properties at 250 °C and 2h. This approach promotes sustainable waste management while exploring materials that could enhance clean energy systems, particularly addressing challenges faced by developing nations in resource utilization and technological advancement.