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Coating made from renewable plant-based materials could simplify recycling while reducing exposure to microplastics
The lining in traditional disposable coffee cups can release plastic particles and be difficult to recycle, but a new plant-based coating can eliminate these issues with your morning brew.
Summary
The lining in traditional disposable coffee cups can release plastic particles and be difficult to recycle, but a new plant-based coating can eliminate these issues with your morning brew. A team of researchers from the University of Waterloo created a durable new coating from cellulose acetate that is reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals. Both components come from plants. Because the coating and the cup are both cellulose-based, the material has the potential to simplify paper recycling by reducing the need to separate conventional plastic liners from paper.
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