Work

Study of the Physico-Chemical Properties of Injection-Molded Polypropylene Reinforced with Spent Coffee Grounds

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the use of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as a biofiller in polypropylene (PP) composites, produced via injection molding, as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. The effects of varying SCG content (1%, 5%, 7%, and 10% w/w) on the flow behavior, thermal stability, mechanical properties, structural integrity, and morphology of the composites were systematically evaluated. Analyses using optical microscopy (OM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) revealed significant changes in morphology and structure with SCG addition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed improved thermal stability with increasing SCG content. Mechanical characterization indicated an enhanced hardness and tensile modulus, a near-constant tensile strength, and a decreased toughness and elongation at break with increasing SCG content. Melt flow index (MFI) measurements confirmed suitable processing characteristics. Overall, the PP/SCG composites demonstrate promising performance regarding sustainability and mechanical properties, suggesting their viability as an alternative to traditional materials.

Source: Journal of Composites Science

DOI: 10.3390/jcs9060257

Authors: Mostapha Karaoui, Vincenzo Fiore, Zineb Elhamri, Samira Kharchouf, Mohammed Alami, Mohammed Assouag

Institutions: Université Moulay Ismail de Meknes, University of Palermo

Language: English

Topic: Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172