Turning Coffee Grounds into Cellulose Nanofibers

Date: 6-Apr-2020

Country: Japan

Application

• The applications of this project involve creating biodegradable plastics for items such as coffee cups, straws, and car parts.

Description

Researchers at Yokohama National University have developed a method to extract cellulose nanofibers from spent coffee grounds, turning waste into a sustainable raw material. These nanofibers are viable for use in biodegradable plastics, including coffee cups and straws. The project aims to establish a recycling system in the coffee industry, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic. The cellulose nanofibers produced from coffee grounds have shown promise in industries like automotive and 3D printing.

Pathway Description:

The process used in this project is TEMPO-mediated oxidation. This method involves using a catalyst (TEMPO, a specific type of chemical) to oxidize the cellulose in spent coffee grounds, breaking down the cell walls and isolating the cellulose nanofibers. These nanofibers are then analyzed and tested for their potential use in producing biodegradable plastics and other materials.