How Taiwan scientists are transforming used coffee into eco-friendly building materials
A university in Taiwan has developed a new way to recycle coffee waste by turning it into building materials that can reduce noise and are better for the environment.
The research, led by Professor Chen Jem-kun of the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, uses coffee grounds to create soundproof panels for buildings.
These materials are designed to replace traditional products that often rely on synthetic adhesives and are difficult to break down.
Professor Chen explained that coffee grounds have a naturally porous structure, which helps scatter sound waves, making them effective for noise reduction.
Unlike other coffee-based products, his team avoided industrial adhesives, which can clog the material’s pores and harm both its performance and its biodegradability.
The new material also absorbs moisture, neutralises odours, and repels insects, making it useful for homes, offices, cinemas, and even furniture.
After two years of research and testing, the team says the product is ready for mass production.
Chen’s team hopes their method will offer a greener and more practical solution for reusing waste from coffee, which has the potential to harm the environment if disposed of incorrectly.
This innovation is part of a broader trend at the university.
In recent months, researchers have also used coffee grounds to develop skincare products and even fuel.
Another team has been turning the waste into charcoal and biofertiliser, promoting full-circle recycling of one of the world's most consumed products.
