II. Understand the types and materials of coffee cups
A. Disposable plastic cups and recyclable paper cups
1. Characteristics and application scenarios of disposable plastic cups
Disposable plastic cups are usually made of polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). Disposable plastic cups are lightweight and easy to carry. So, it is particularly suitable for takeout and fast food scenarios. Compared to other materials, disposable plastic cups have lower costs. It is suitable for places such as fast food restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores, etc.
2. Characteristics and application scenarios of recyclable paper cups
Recyclable paper cups are usually made of pulp material. The paper cup is made of recyclable materials and is environmentally friendly. Its use can reduce waste generation and resource waste. There is usually a protective layer between the inner and outer walls of the paper cup. It can effectively reduce heat transfer and protect customers' hands from burns. In addition, the printing effect of the paper cup is good. The surface of the paper cup can be printed. Stores can be used for brand promotion and advertising promotion. Recyclable paper cups are commonly found in places such as coffee shops, tea shops, and fast food restaurants. It is suitable for occasions where customers consume in the store or choose to take out.
B. Comparison of different types of coffee cups
1. Advantages and disadvantages of single-layer coffee cups
The price economy of single-layer coffee cups. Its cost is low, so its price is relatively low. In addition, it has strong flexibility. Merchants can customize design and printing according to their needs. The single-layer paper cup has a wide range of applications. It can be applied to low-temperature beverages and cold drinks.
However, single-layer coffee cups also have some drawbacks. Due to the lack of insulation on a single layer paper cup, hot drinks transfer heat on the surface of the cup. If the temperature of the coffee is too high, it can easily burn the customer's hands on the cup. Single layer paper cups are not as sturdy as multi-layer paper cups. Therefore, it is relatively easy to deform or collapse.
2. Advantages and disadvantages of double-layer coffee cups
Double layer coffee cups are designed to address the issue of poor insulation in single layer cups. It has excellent thermal insulation. The double-layer structure can effectively isolate heat transfer. This can protect customers' hands from burns. Moreover, double-layer paper cups are more stable and less prone to deformation or collapse than single-layer paper cups. However, compared to single-layer paper cups, the cost of double-layer paper cups is higher.
3. Advantages and disadvantages of corrugated coffee cups
Corrugated coffee cups are paper cups made from food grade corrugated paper. Its material has excellent insulation performance and can effectively prevent heat transfer. Corrugated paper cups have strong stability. The corrugated structure of corrugated paper gives the paper cup better stability.
However, compared to traditional paper cups, the cost of corrugated paper materials is higher. Its production process is relatively complex, and the processing process is relatively cumbersome.
4. Advantages and disadvantages of plastic coffee cups
The plastic material makes this paper cup more durable and less prone to damage. It has good leak resistance and can effectively prevent the overflow of beverages.
However, plastic coffee cups also have some drawbacks. Plastic materials have a significant impact on the environment and do not meet environmental requirements.
It is also not suitable for high-temperature beverages. Plastic cups may release harmful substances and are not suitable for loading high-temperature beverages.