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A Review of the Feasibility of Producing Polylactic Acid (PLA) Polymers Using Spent Coffee Ground

Author

Listed:
  • Shu Lun Mak

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Ming Yan Tanya Wu

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Wai Ying Chak

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Wang Kei Kwong

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Wai Fan Tang

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Chi Ho Li

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Chi Chung Lee

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Chun Yin Li

    (Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

Abstract

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Annual coffee consumption continues to increase, but at the same time, it generates a large amount of spent coffee grounds from the brewing process that give rise to environmental problems. An appropriate solution to manage these spent coffee grounds (SCGs) becomes crucial. Our project aims at discussing the feasibility of utilizing SCGs to synthesize polylactic acid (PLA) as a recycling application for SCGs. Producing PLA from SCGs offers the opportunity to contribute to the circular economy and sustainability due to the significant volume of coffee consumption. This approach reduces waste, provides environmental benefits, and promotes the use of renewable resources. Through repurposing SCGs into PLA, we can close the loop, minimize environmental impact, and create a more sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-based plastics. This paper first discusses the properties and potential recycling applications of spent coffee grounds. The production of PLA from lactic acid and the potential processes for converting SCGs to lactic acid are then briefly discussed. From our review, it is feasible to utilize SCGs as the primary source for lactic acid production via bacteria fermentation and, further, to produce PLA via ring-opening polymerization. Possible ways to improve the yield and a corresponding cost analysis are also discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Shu Lun Mak & Ming Yan Tanya Wu & Wai Ying Chak & Wang Kei Kwong & Wai Fan Tang & Chi Ho Li & Chi Chung Lee & Chun Yin Li, 2023. "A Review of the Feasibility of Producing Polylactic Acid (PLA) Polymers Using Spent Coffee Ground," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(18), pages 1-17, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:18:p:13498-:d:1236120
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nikoletta Solomakou & Panagiota Tsafrakidou & Athanasia M. Goula, 2022. "Valorization of SCG through Extraction of Phenolic Compounds and Synthesis of New Biosorbent," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(15), pages 1-23, July.
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    Cited by:

    1. Hamed Sadaghian & Behrooz Dadmand & Majid Pourbaba & Soheil Jabbari & Jung Heum Yeon, 2023. "The Effect of Size on the Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Polymers," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(1), pages 1-21, December.

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