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

Shu Lun Mak (), Ming Yan Tanya Wu, Wai Ying Chak, Wang Kei Kwong, Wai Fan Tang, Chi Ho Li, Chi Chung Lee and Chun Yin Li
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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

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 18, 1-17

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.

Keywords: recycling of spent coffee grounds; lactic acid production; polylactic acid (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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