Cashew nut shell liquid, commonly known as CNSL, is a by-product of the cashew fruit. Found mostly in tropical regions, the cashew fruit generates about 70% husk and 30% nut. A large portion of cashew husk dust translates to putting this by-product to various uses. While the Cashew Husk Powder itself is used as cattle feed, a tanning agent among various other uses, its extracted liquid is now also a highly demanded by-product. Let’s understand how this CNSL is extracted and it’s various industrial uses.
Gift of Nature
The chemical composition of cashew husk places it in the optimal bracket for biomass waste that is redefining renewable energy. Cashew is grown in tropical countries such as India, Africa, Thailand and Vietnam. It is these countries who are in dire need of renewable energy resources, making it an ideal gift of nature.
Process of Extraction
Purification of Cashew Husk
The major natural element used in extraction of CNSL is heat. As the shell is acidic in nature and can cause dermatitis on contact, they cannot be peeled manually and are done mechanically. Post this, it goes through a roasting process at very high temperatures where the cashew nut shell liquid oozes out. Further, a purification process may be conducted to remove cardanol and distil the liquid.
Uses of Cashew Nut Shell Liquid
Due to its chemical composition, easy availability and cheap cost of procuring and processing, cashew nut shell liquid has many uses and applicants in industries.
Some of them include:
⇒ It is widely used in producing surface coats, varnishes and paints.
⇒ This liquid is used as a robust industrial frictional lining.
⇒ It is used for making polyurethane based polymers.
⇒ CNSL can be used as a emulsifying agent for water in oil based petroleum emulsions
⇒ It is uesd for manufacturing cashew cements.
⇒ Due to its reddish brown colour, it is used in the production of red oxide.
⇒ It is also used as a termite repellent due to its acidic nature.
The uses of cashew nut shell liquid are to this date being researched widely for its application in the development of pharmaceuticals, pesticides and additives. With India having the best supplier of cashew husk powder, it’s only a matter of time before CNSL finds usage across varies industries in everyday life.
Roll of Kattha Bazaar
Kattha Bazaar is the best supplier of Cashew Husk Dust in India. You will also find us topping the list not only in terms of pricing, but also timely delivery and best customer service. Trust us to deliver products to you with superior quality and accurate timelines to establish lasting business relationships. If you are looking to understand more about cashew husk dust and the process of converting it to CNSL, our team would be delighted to help you. Get in touch with us today!
