A method for the process of collagen modified polyester from fish scales waste.

In this study, we introduced a novel polymerization method of polyester using collagen peptides derived from fish scale waste. After the extraction process of collagen peptide from fish scales, putting collagen peptide, ethylene glycol and Benzenedicarboxylic acid into a container, and mixing them to form a mixture; heating the mixture for executing an esterification reaction, to product esters and water; heating the esters, and stirring the esters via a mixer; in a specific period, decreasing the pressure in the container for executing a polycondensation reaction; decreasing the pressure in the container to a second pressure, and stirring the esters via the mixer, to produce a collagen modified polyester. Collagen peptides are rich in glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, and by forming a triple helix structure, such as that of the copolyester, gain better hydrophilicity, antistaticity, and ductility. As a result, the produced collagen modified polyester fiber keeps the characteristics of the traditional polyethylene terephthalate fibers including strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkle and shrink. However, the supramolecular collagen modified polyester containing animal collagen peptides has naturally a soft touch and champagne-like color. Consequently, it can be used as a suitable material for skin-friendly functional clothes with or without additional dying. In brief,•This study introduces a novel method for collagen modified polyester.•Upcycled fish scale waste brings the sustainable benefits of circular economy.•Collagen modified polyester provides a new direction for future technological development in the textile industry.