Spectroscopic Assessment of the Shoe Polishes Produced From Waste PET Bottles and Pure Water Sachets

Finger printing of show polish from waste plastics

Abstract

The indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, particularly used low density polyethene (LDPE) water sachets and polyethene terephthalates (PET) bottles, has become a major environmental concern in Lagos, Nigeria. This study explores the conversion of these waste materials into value-added products through pyrolysis for the production of solid and liquid shoe polishes. Pyrolysis was carried out at temperatures ranging from 150°C to 350°C to obtain wax suitable for polish formulation. The physical and chemical properties of the waxes and formulated polishes were characterized using FTIR, SEM, and TGA techniques. Results showed that the polishes exhibited desirable qualities such as soft texture, dark hue, good gloss, wrinkle resistance, and comparable melting point, density, and viscosity to commercial shoe polishes. Sample B (PET-LDPE blend) demonstrated superior performance. This approach not only offers an effective waste management strategy but also supports economic empowerment by enabling small-scale production without the need for costly equipment or chemicals. The study highlights the potential of converting common plastic wastes into commercially viable daily needs products and recommends further exploration of other polyethene types for similar applications.