Search Results (25)

This study aims to investigate the release of potentially toxic elements from disposable paper and plastic cups when exposed to hot water, simulating the scenario of their use in hot beverage consumption, and to assess the associated health risks. By using ICP-MS, twelve potentially toxic elements, namely As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Pb, Sb, V, and Zn, were determined in leachates, revealing significant variability in mass fractions between paper and plastic cups, with plastic cups demonstrating greater leaching potential. Health risk assessments, including hazard quotient (HQ) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), indicated minimal non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks for most elements, except Pb, which posed elevated non-carcinogenic risk, especially in plastic cups. Children showed higher relative exposure levels compared to adults due to their lower body weights (the HQ in children is two times greater than in adults). Overall, the findings of the current study underscore the need for stricter monitoring and regulation of materials used in disposable cups, especially plastic ones, to mitigate potential health risks. Future investigations should assess the leaching behavior of potentially toxic elements under conditions that accurately mimic real-world usage. Such investigations ought to incorporate a systematic evaluation of diverse temperature regimes, varying exposure durations, and different beverage types. Full article

This study presents the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a two-finger robotic gripper featuring a 135° V-shaped fingertip profile tailored for lightweight waste collection in laboratory-scale environmental robotics. The gripper was developed with a strong emphasis on cost-effectiveness and manufacturability, utilizing a desktop 3D printer and off-the-shelf servomotors. A four-bar linkage mechanism enables parallel jaw motion and ensures stable surface contact during grasping, achieving a maximum opening range of 71.5 mm to accommodate common cylindrical objects. To validate structural integrity, finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted under a 0.6 kg load, yielding a safety factor of 3.5 and a peak von Mises stress of 12.75 MPa—well below the material yield limit of PLA. Experimental testing demonstrated grasp success rates of up to 80 percent for typical waste items, including bottles, disposable cups, and plastic bags. While the gripper performs reliably with rigid and semi-rigid objects, further improvements are needed for handling highly deformable materials such as thin films or soft bags. The proposed design offers significant advantages in terms of rapid prototyping (a print time of approximately 10 h), modularity, and low manufacturing cost (with an estimated in-house material cost of USD 20 to 40). It provides a practical and accessible solution for small-scale robotic waste-collection tasks and serves as a foundation for future developments in affordable, application-specific grippers. Full article

Single-use plastics (SUPs) are deeply embedded in everyday consumption in rapidly developing Asian cities, yet their widespread use contributes to marine debris, microplastic pollution, and health risks. This study aimed to inform evidence-based policymaking to mitigate marine plastic pollution in the ASEAN+3 region. Stratified random sampling surveys (n = 1492) were conducted both face to face and online across five representative cities between September 2022 and February 2023. We quantified and compared the consumption and disposal patterns across nine SUP categories, assessed demographic influences, evaluated the impact of COVID-19, and derived insights for targeted policy interventions. Non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the differences. The results reveal significant inter-city variation: Shanghai and Harbin reported high overall SUP use despite a lower consumption of plastic shopping bags; Hanoi and Depok showed lower overall use but distinct preferences for plastic shopping bags and party cups; and Phnom Penh had the highest consumption of plastic shopping bags, bottles, and straws. Plastic shopping bags were the most used item in all cities (18–34 bags per week), with no significant differences between urban and rural areas, ages, or genders. In contrast, urban residents reported a higher use of plastic takeout containers, cutlery, coffee cups, and party cups. The COVID-19 pandemic notably reshaped SUP consumption patterns. Additionally, over half of SUPs were disposed of without proper separation. These findings underscore the need for flexible, phased, and context-specific interventions to support a resilient circular economy. Full article

This study investigates a two-stage production–inventory model with subsidy policies for paper cup recycling. The model includes remanufacturers, recyclers, and consumers, taking into account their preferences for different recycling channels. The negative binomial distribution of investment fund w is introduced and briefly studied. The influence of various subsidy strategies on the optimal pricing, profit, and recycling volume of the reverse supply chain is discussed. Numerical simulations show that increased consumer recycling preferences positively impact the recycling volume and profit. When subsidies are limited, subsidizing remanufacturers leads to higher recycling volumes, while subsidizing consumers results in higher profits at lower-to-middle subsidy levels. The findings suggest that policymakers can leverage different subsidy strategies to effectively manage the paper cup recycling supply chain and promote sustainability by incentivizing key stakeholders to participate in the recycling process. For example, subsidizing remanufacturers can increase the overall recycling volume by making it more financially viable for them to collect and process used cups, while subsidizing consumers can boost their participation and willingness to properly dispose of cups for recycling, leading to higher profits for the reverse supply chain. Full article

This study characterizes single-use paper cups with respect to potentially toxic elements, radiological impact, and the potential of economic metals recovery from incineration residue. Thirty-six elements were identified in the analysis of paper cups, including naturally occurring radionuclides ⁴⁰K, Th, and U, as well as potentially toxic elements such as Al, Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, and V using neutron activation analysis. The determined mass fractions varied significantly, with Mg, Al, and Ca present in notably high concentrations. A comparison with plastic cups revealed higher mass fractions of most elements in paper cups. The study also evaluated the potential for valuable element recovery from the incineration ash of paper cups. It demonstrated a promising potential for recovery of Cu—especially from blue and green cups—and Mg, as their mass fractions are above the ore cut-off grade. The amount of CO₂ emissions from the incineration of paper cups was estimated at 1.77 kg/kg. The activity concentrations of ⁴⁰K, Th, and U were estimated in the incineration ash, with ⁴⁰K accounting for around half of the total detected activity. The median radioactivity was 35 Bq/kg. Although the radioactivity levels are low, they should be considered due to the large volume of paper cup waste. The radiological risk was assessed using various hazard indices, indicating minimal risk to human health. The dose rate and the annual dose are well below the recommended limits, and the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) of 2.17 × 10⁻⁵ is well below the typical safety limit. Full article

Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are a waste product generated after brewing coffee. For every ton of brewed coffee, approximately 650 kg of grounds are produced. Their disposal can have harmful environmental effects, making it necessary to find alternative uses for SCGs. The valorization of coffee’s bioactive compounds significantly contributes to environmental protection and management. According to the literature, SCGs can be utilized as fertilizers, sorbents, additives for biodiesel production, in bioelectricity, or as an enhancer for the calorific value of biomass. SCGs can also be used as substrates for producing various items, such as cups or plant pots, in the food, cosmetics, and construction industries. The applications of SCGs described in this review article were conducted under laboratory conditions. The aim of this article is to analyze the alternative uses of SCGs in various fields, highlighting the diversity of applications as well as key drawbacks and limitations associated with their use. Additionally, potential future research directions are outlined, which could contribute to a more efficient and sustainable utilization of SCGs. Full article

Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) operations are hazardous due to the volatile and sensitive nature of these devices. EOD robots have improved these tasks, but their high cost limits accessibility for security institutions that do not have sufficient funds. This article presents the design, implementation, and validation of a low-cost EOD robot named JVC-02, specifically designed for use in explosive hazardous environments to safeguard the safety of police officers of the Explosives Disposal Unit (UDEX) of Arequipa, Peru. To achieve this goal, the essential requirements for this type of robot were compiled, referencing the capabilities of Rescue Robots from RoboCup. Additionally, the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) methodology was used to identify the needs and requirements of UDEX police officers. Based on this information, a modular approach to robot design was developed, utilizing commercial off-the-shelf components to facilitate maintenance and repair. The JVC-02 was integrated with a 5-DoF manipulator and a two-finger mechanical gripper to perform dexterity tasks, along with a tracked locomotion mechanism, which enables effective movement, and a three-camera vision system to facilitate exploration tasks. Finally, field tests were conducted in real scenarios to evaluate and experimentally validate the capabilities of the JVC-02 robot, assessing its mobility, dexterity, and exploration skills. Additionally, real EOD missions were carried out in which UDEX agents intervened and controlled the robot. The results demonstrate that the JVC-02 robot possesses strong capabilities for real EOD applications, excelling in intuitive operation, low cost, and ease of maintenance. Full article

Since the beginning of 2023, the so-called reusable packaging obligation has been in place in Germany in order to reduce the amount of waste from takeaway packaging. Catering companies will then be obliged to offer reusable packaging as an alternative to disposable plastic takeaway packaging. As part of the pilot project ‘Mehrweg Modell Stadt’ (‘Reusable city model’), an open infrastructure for reusable cups is in trial in Mainz and Wiesbaden. The project was subjected to a scientific monitoring process, which included the implementation of quantitative surveys among various stakeholders within the value chain, namely consumers, catering companies, and other companies engaged in the project. This was conducted over two time periods: August 2023 to September 2023, and February to March 2024. The results show a discrepancy between consumers’ attitudes and their actual behavior: Despite a high level of sustainability awareness and perceived positive benefits of reusable packaging, perceived barriers stand in the way of actual use. The biggest challenges for companies are the lack of consumer demand, practical handling and hygiene requirements. The results of this quantitative social research provide important insights for the development of targeted measures to promote the use of reusable packaging in takeaway catering and contribute to the discussion on closing the attitude–behavior gap along the entire value chain. Full article

Microplastics (MPs) have attracted considerable attention as one of the most remarkable food and drink pollutants in recent years. Disposable cups, which are widely used as single-use containers, have been suspected as the primary sources of MPs found in cold and hot beverages. In this study, the effect of different exposure times (0, 5, 10 and 20 min) and temperatures (4 °C, 50 °C and 80 °C) on MP release from the single-use cups made of four different materials [polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE) coated paper cups and expanded polystyrene (EPS)] into the water was investigated. The number of MPs ranged from 126 p/L to 1420 p/L, while the highest and lowest counts were observed in the PP (50 °C for 20 min) and PE-coated paper cups (4 °C 0 min), respectively. Washing the cups with ultrapure water prior to use reduced the MP release by 52–65%. SEM images demonstrated the abrasion on the surface of the disposable cups as a result of hot water exposure. Intensities of FTIR absorbance levels at some wavelengths were decreased by the water treatment, which could be evidence of surface abrasion. The annual MP exposure of consumers was calculated as 18,720–73,840 by the consumption of hot and cold beverages in disposable cups. In conclusion, as the level and potential toxicity of MP exposure in humans are not yet fully known, this study sheds light on the number of MPs transferred to cold and hot beverages from single-use disposable cups. Full article

Sustainable manufacturing practices are becoming increasingly necessary due to the growing concerns regarding climate change and resource scarcity. Consequently, material recycling technologies have gradually become preferred over conventional processes. This study aimed to recycle waste polylactic acid (PLA) from household-disposed cups and lids to create 3D-printed parts and promote sustainable manufacturing practices. To achieve this, the current study utilised virgin and post-consumer PLA (PC-PLA) (sourced from household waste) blends. The PC-PLA wastes were shredded and sorted by size with the aid of a washing step, resulting in a filament with a 1.70 ± 0.5 mm diameter without fragmentation or dissolution. A 50:50 wt.% blend of virgin PLA (vPLA) and PC-PLA was selected as the standard recycling percentage based on previous research and resource conservation goals. The study investigated the impact of three 3D printing parameters (layer height (LH), infill density (I), and nozzle temperature (NT)) on the quality of 3D-printed parts using a three-level L9 Taguchi orthogonal array. The findings revealed that blending PC-PLA with vPLA led to significant improvements in tensile, flexural, and impact strengths by 18.40%, 8%, and 9.15%, respectively, compared to those of recycled PLA (rPLA). This conclusion was supported by the investigation of the fracture surface area, which revealed fractographic features associated with printing parameters, such as plastic deformation and interfilament debonding. An ANOVA analysis revealed a positive influence of a greater layer height and high nozzle temperature on mechanical properties. Subsequently, the optimal printing parameters (LH: 0.3 mm, I: 100%, and NT: 215 °C) were determined using the S/N ratio, and a confirmation test using the optimum printing parameters exhibited a strong correlation with the statistically predicted outcomes. Finally, the study used optimum printing parameters to fabricate 100% PC-PLA 3D-printed parts, demonstrating their potential for low-strength applications. The findings suggest that employing vPLA and PC-PLA blended filaments for fabricating 3D-printed components presents an effective means of promoting plastic recycling within a closed-loop recycling system and achieving a circular economy. Full article

The experience of menstruation is often associated with negative connotations and gender stereotypes, which results in making it invisible. This research aimed to explore the perceptions, beliefs, and knowledge of young Spanish women regarding the menstrual cycle and menstruation and their impact on their lives. The study delves into their understanding, menstrual management practices, the types of menstrual products employed, and their experiences related to menstrual health. Qualitative methodology was used with discussion groups as a data collection technique. The participants comprised 45 young Spanish women, aged between 18 and 23, hailing from both rural and urban areas. The majority were university students, with some engaged in part-time work, and one participant working full-time. While many experienced menstrual pain ranging from mild to debilitating, a normalization of this pain often led them to forego seeking specialist assistance. Disposable menstrual products (DMPs) are the most used by participants, despite limited awareness of their absorption capacity. Regarding reusable menstrual products (RMPs), menstrual cup users emphasized comfort but expressed a need for proper training. Negative menstruation experiences could evoke fear and difficulties, underscoring the importance of providing comprehensive menstrual health education encompassing both theoretical and practical components. Full article

The growing demand for cellulosic pulp presents an opportunity to explore alternatives to this material, focusing on utilizing agro-industrial residues. Mango’s tegument is a rich source of cellulose, making it a valuable raw material for manufacturing single-use articles or blends with biopolymers. In this sense, employing conventional alkaline and acid chemical treatments, the mango’s tegument was treated to obtain cellulosic pulp. The teguments were subjected to treatment with alkaline solutions (2% and 4% NaOH w/v) at 80 °C for 1 or 2 h or with an acetic acid solution (1:1 or 1:2 CH₃COOH:H₂O₂) at 60–70 °C for 1 or 2 h. After treatment, an evaluation was conducted to assess the yield, color, chemical analysis, and structural, thermal, and morphological properties. The alkali treatments produced cellulosic pulps with a light color with 37–42% yield and reduced hemicellulose content. The acid treatments produced orange–brown cellulosic pulp with 47–48% yield and higher hemicellulose content. The acid pulps were thermally more stable (maximum decomposition at 348–357 °C) than the alkali pulps (maximum decomposition at 316–321 °C). The crystallinity index demonstrated that both treatments increased the crystallinity of the cellulose pulps compared with the untreated tegument. The thermal stability of cellulosic pulp at the processing temperatures of disposable tableware (50–120 °C) revealed that plates, bowls, trays, and cups could be produced. Another potential application is as a component of blends with biopolymers to make straws or rigid food packaging (trays) with reinforced structures. Full article

Understanding of the potential leaching of plastic particles, particularly nanoplastics (NPs), from food packaging is crucial in assessing the safety of the packaging materials. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate potential exposure risks by simulating the release of NPs from various plastic packaging materials, including polypropylene (PP), general casting polypropylene (GCPP) or metalized casting polypropylene (MCPP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU), under corresponding food consumption scenarios. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to identify and characterize the NPs leached from plastic packaging. The presence of separated NPs was observed in PP groups subjected to 100 °C hot water, GCPP plastic sterilized at a high temperature (121 °C), and PE plastic soaked in 100 °C hot water, exhibited a distorted morphology and susceptibility to aggregation. The findings suggest that the frequent consumption of takeaway food, hot beverages served in disposable paper cups, and foods packaged with GCPP materials may elevate the risk of ingestion of NPs. This reminds us that food packaging can serve as an important avenue for human exposure to NPs, and the results can offer valuable insights for food safety management and the development of food packaging materials. Full article

The use of olive pomace from olive oil production is still insufficient. The lingering olive pomace is harmful to the environment. On the other hand, the world is increasingly polluted with plastic or by-products from the production of biodegradable products. Considering these two problems, the aim of this work was to develop a mixture and create biodegradable disposable tableware characterized by high antioxidant activity. The disposable tableware was made by mixing olive pomace with teff flour or/and sorghum groats and lecithin. Baking was carried out at the temperature of 180 °C. The best variant of the mixture for the preparation of disposable tableware was olive pomace, teff flour, sorghum groats and lecithin. These vessels were the toughest, with low water absorption and had a high antioxidant potential due to the high content of polyphenols and omega acids. Protecting the cups and bowls with beeswax had a positive effect on reducing water absorption. Full article

Disposable paper cups are widely used in daily life and most of them are landfilled or incinerated after use, resulting in a serious ecological hazard and significant waste of resources due to the usage of thin polyethylene (PE) as their inner coating. Hence, converting these common solid domestic wastes into high-value added materials is attractive and meaningful. In this study, transparent cellulose-based films were achieved from old bamboo-based disposable paper cups after pretreatment through using the room ionic liquid 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (AmimCl) as solvent. The cellulose-based film with a dense texture demonstrated a relatively nice mechanical and UV-shielding performances, and its tensile strength was as high as 48 MPa, much higher than that of commercial polyethylene (PE, 12 MPa) film. Thus, the resultant cellulose-based film showed a great potential in the packaging field. Besides, the flexible paper plastic composites (PPC) were also fabricated from the rest thin PE coating with the stuck fibers, and it was found that PPC showed excellent mechanical property and hydrophobicity. Consequently, a feasible and eco-friendly process of recycling and reusing waste disposable paper cups was developed to achieve a complete utilization and valorization of waste disposable paper cups. Full article