Elaboración de biomateriales a través del aprovechamiento de residuos de café

Abstract

Coffee is one of the most popular drinks worldwide. Although the coffee industry is of great economic importance, it is considered an activity that produces a significant environmental impact. According to studies carried out, organic coffee wastes become a pollutant agent due to the presence of caffeine, polyphenols, and tannins, among the most important. This research proposes a methodology for the elaboration of a biomaterial from the mixture of coffee grounds with natural polymers. The study of the physical characteristics of the material and its biodegradability were developed to analyze its applicability. Results reveal a potential for the use of coffee grounds, being a possible solution to its generation in Bolivia, the fifth most important country in terms of coffee production in South America. Keywords: coffee;biomaterial;biodegradability