COFFEERISE: Sustainable construction and hydrogen energy from spent coffee grounds, stage 1

Important results from the project

We delivered two SCG routes: (1) ≥70 wt% SCG biocomposites for bricks/tiles. Cyclic dip-and-dry tests showed good integrity with biopolymer binder (poor without). A 15-sec open-flame screening test showed flame spread/smoke, yet samples retained integrity; rates varied with binder content. (2) SCG-derived biographite via energy-efficient pyrolysis (SEM/Raman). Plates with 80 wt% biograhite achieved > 100 S/cm for PEMFC BPPs. Stage-1 objectives were met.

Expected long term effects

Scaling SCG composites can cut waste and emissions in bricks and tiles used in construction; integrity after wet cycling and post-flame stability indicate promise pending binder/flame-retardant optimization. SCG-derived biographite can strengthen graphite supply for PEMFCs hence resilience of Sweden´s and EU´s hydrogen value chain. Local Swedish value chains for collection-to-manufacturing can drive new business, jobs, and resource efficiency.

Approach and implementation

We followed the plan as defined in the work packages drafted in the proposal: hydrophobized SCG; ≥70 wt% SCG plates; pyrolysis & graphitization to convert SCG into biographite, characterized using SEM and Raman; electrical tests to study the relevance for PEMFC BPPs; cyclic dip-and-wet water tests and a 15-sec open-flame screening test; initial TEA. Collaboration and WP structure stayed on schedule.