EcoHide: Investigation of Properties and Durability of Fruit and Coffee-Ground-Based Biopolymer Composites for Vegan Leather Alternatives

In our study, we investigated the mechanical properties and durability of vegan leather composed of biopolymer composites derived from fruit peels (i.e., orange and pomelo) and spent coffee grounds. With increasing environmental concerns and demand for cruelty-free products, sustainable leather substitutes are gaining traction in the fashion and upholstery industries. Composite samples were prepared and tested using cellulose-rich fruit waste and lignin-containing coffee grounds, and their tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance were analysed under various conditions. Our results show that orange peel-based composites consistently demonstrated the highest mechanical strength and thermal resistance, while pomelo-based composites showed significant improvements with optimised ingredient composition. Coffee-ground-based composites demonstrated good initial strength but were less durable in harsh conditions. None of the tested materials showed electrical conductivity, indicating their potential for applications requiring electrical insulation. By optimising material ratios and processing methods, this study hopes to highlight the potential of low-cost, biodegradable, and scalable vegan leather alternatives matching or exceeding the properties of traditional animal leather in certain applications. This work contributes to the development of sustainable materials for environmentally responsible industries.