Utilization of Disposable Paper Cups for Production of Cellulose Acetate Based Film

Abstract

The aims of research to explore the conversion of disposable paper cups, commonly used in the food and beverage industry, into cellulose acetate film. The increasing environmental concerns regarding plastic waste and the desire for sustainable alternatives have led to the investigation of utilizing cellulose-based materials.

Cellulose, a biopolymer derived from plant-based sources, is the primary component of paper cups. Through a series of chemical processes, cellulose fibers are extracted from the paper cups and subsequently acetylated to form cellulose acetate. Cellulose acetate is a biodegradable and versatile material with various applications in packaging, textiles, and films. The project involves experimental work to extract cellulose fibers from the paper cups, optimizing the acetylation process, and fabricating cellulose acetate films through casting. The cellulose acetate films exhibit favourable properties, including good mechanical strength and thermal stability. These properties make cellulose acetate films a potential alternative to conventional plastic films, offering environmental benefits and promoting sustainability.