Waste Reuse: Taiwan Tech Transforms Coffee Grounds into Eco-Friendly Soundproofing Material
- STIC CEGIR
- Jul 7
- 1 min read
A research team from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech) has developed an eco-friendly soundproofing material made from waste coffee grounds. This innovative material not only provides noise reduction, but also has deodorizing, moisture-absorbing, and insect-repellent properties. The team, led by Prof. Jem-Kun Chen, utilized coffee grounds’ natural porous structure for effective sound absorption and avoided using industrial adhesives, maintaining the material's sustainability.
Compared to traditional soundproofing materials like fiberglass or polyester fiber, coffee ground-based panels are low-cost, highly sustainable, and effective. NTUST's method involves heat pressing after surface treatment of the grounds, achieving commercial production compatibility.
Potential applications include residential walls, office partitions, cinemas, recording studios, and even vehicles. Prof. Chen emphasized the future potential of local recycling; transforming waste from urban cafes into green building materials, supporting circular economy and reducing reliance on imported materials.
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