The Science Of The Perfect Cup For Coffee – CoffeeTalk

Dr. Hongbin Ma, CEO of ThermAvant Technologies LLC, was working on a NASA-funded study on phase-change materials used to maintain a steady temperature in space. NASA has long used phase-changing materials to manage temperature extremes in space, including the Apollo lunar rover, International Space Station, Orion capsule, and headlights on the newest spacesuit design. Ma tested and recommended a phase-change material for a spacesuit-cooling system, a modified version of those used in spacecraft.

A phase-change material needs to transition at the desired temperature but also be safe. Paraffin wax and refrigerants are effective but toxic to humans, making leaks hazardous. Ma’s team ultimately recommended a bio-based option for spacesuits. A beeswax-like soy substance proved to be the perfect solution for maintaining optimal temperature for coffee.

NASA-funded research into spacesuit material alternatives helped ThermAvant International LLC develop the Burnout thermal mug for coffee. Released in 2018, the Burnout Mug is vacuum insulated with the wax called HeatZorb, sealed between the inner and outer shells. The wax is formulated to maintain the ideal temperature for hot drinks over time, absorbing excess heat and melting, resulting in a drinkable temperature in just a few moments. The company is developing other uses for the same technology to meet unique needs in the medical field, including a small insulin container and a donor organ transportation box.

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