In recent years, the coffee paper cup has become an increasingly popular item for businesses. Many different types of coffee cup coatings are available on the market today. This can be confusing for businesses when deciding which type of coating to use for their coffee cups. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular coffee cup coatings and their benefits.
Why are paper cups coated?
Paper cups are coated for a few reasons. Firstly, the coating provides a barrier between the cup and the hot beverage, which prevents the cup from getting soggy and leaking. Secondly, the coating helps to insulate the drink, keeping it hot for longer. Finally, the coating makes the cup more durable and less likely to tear or leak.
Different types of Coating for Coffee Paper Cups
As coffee consumption has grown in popularity, so has the to-go cup. While many different types of reusable cups are on the market, most coffee shops still use paper cups. These cups need a coating to make them water-resistant and prevent leaking.
Polyethylene Coating
In the United States, paper cups are usually coated with polyethylene. This is a plastic that is applied in liquid form and then hardened. The polyethylene coating helps to make the cup waterproof and prevents leaks. It also makes the cup more durable and less likely to tear. This type of coating is thin and flexible, making it ideal for use on paper cups.
A new study has found that polyethylene coating on coffee paper cups may help to reduce the number of environmental pollutants that end up in our waterways. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, looked at the release of plastic particles from coated and uncoated coffee cups when they were exposed to water. They found that the polyethylene coating helped to significantly reduce the release of these particles.
Food Grade Wax Coating
As coffee consumption continues to rise, so does the use of paper cups. While paper cups are recyclable, they often end up in landfills. A new type of food-grade wax coating for coffee paper cups is said to be a game changer. The coating makes the cup water-resistant and prevents leaks. It also extends the shelf life of the cup, making it more durable. This gives the cup a glossy finish and makes it better at resisting moisture. Wax-coated paper cups are not as common as polyethylene-coated paper cups, but they are sometimes used for hot beverages. The coating is said to be safe for both consumers and the environment.
PLA Coating
The third type of coating for paper cups is called PLA. This is a biodegradable plastic made from cornstarch or other plant materials. The PLA coating will help to keep coffee hot for longer and prevent grease from seeping through the cup and onto the hands. PLA-coated paper cups are becoming more popular as people look for more environmentally friendly options.
The use of PLA coatings is part of a wider trend toward more sustainable packaging solutions. With growing concerns about plastic pollution, there is an increasing demand for packaging that is made from renewable and biodegradable materials.
Polypropylene (PP) Coating
As coffee becomes more popularized, the need for better paper cups has increased. A new type of coating called Polypropylene (PP) has been developed to help make these cups more durable. This material is different from traditional coatings like wax because it forms a barrier that is impervious to liquids. This means that your cup of coffee will not leak and will be less likely to get soggy. The PP coating also provides a smoother surface for printing, which gives the cup a more professional look.
Polystyrene Coating
Polystyrene is a plastic that is widely used in the food packaging industry. A study has found that a polystyrene coating on coffee paper cups can help to keep them hot for longer. The study, which was conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), found that when a coffee cup was coated with just two micrometers of polystyrene, it kept the beverage hot for up to 30 minutes longer than an uncoated cup. The researchers say that this finding could have major implications for the food service industry, as it could help to reduce waste and save money. "Our results suggest that a very thin coating of polystyrene could be used to significantly improve the heat retention of disposable coffee cups," said NIST researcher Xiaoli Tan.
There are several things to consider when choosing a coffee cup coating. The type of coating will affect the cup's appearance, durability, and price. If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, then choose a biodegradable coating.
Some companies are also offering uncoated paper cups. These cups can be recycled along with other types of paper products. However, they may not be as durable as cups coated with polyethylene or other materials. If you are still undecided on the best coating materials for your coffee paper cup, you can check out TrustPrints to assist you with your business needs. All the best!