Australians Drink Six Billion Cups Of Coffee Each Year. Here’s One Way To Reuse The Waste. – CoffeeTalk

In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers at Melbourne’s RMIT University are transforming spent coffee grounds into a sustainable alternative for concrete production. With Australians consuming over six billion cups of coffee annually, the resulting waste presents a significant opportunity for innovation in construction materials.

The process involves converting spent coffee grounds into biochar, which replaces sand—a key ingredient in concrete that is becoming increasingly scarce. Lead researcher Rajeev Roychand explains that the coffee grounds are roasted in a pyrolysis unit at high temperatures, resulting in a black-colored biochar that enhances the concrete’s strength. Previous trials have shown a remarkable 30% increase in concrete strength when using this innovative material.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts in Australia to reduce landfill waste and promote a circular economy. Clean Up Australia Chair Pip Kiernan emphasizes the importance of reusing materials, noting that Australia currently lags behind other countries in waste recovery and reuse.

In addition to coffee grounds, researchers at Victoria University are also exploring the use of polyester fibers from discarded hi-vis safety vests in concrete production. This dual approach not only diverts waste from landfills but also contributes to the development of more durable and environmentally friendly construction materials.

As these projects progress, the potential for commercial applications grows, paving the way for a more sustainable future in construction.

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