New ‘game-changing’ espresso method could make coffee cheaper

New ‘game-changing’ espresso method could make coffee cheaper

June 9, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Business

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have developed “ultrasonic espresso” using high-frequency sound waves and room-temperature water. According to senior lecturer Francisco Trujillo, the method delivers the richness of traditional espresso in under three minutes and cuts energy consumption by 75%.

How does the ultrasonic process work?

The system employs a small metal device that generates ultrasound against a traditional espresso filter basket. This causes the basket to vibrate rapidly, which breaks down coffee grounds and accelerates extraction, according to the research team.

Researchers Shih-Hao Chiu, Dr. Francisco Trujillo, and Nikunj Naliyadhara found the result is comparable to traditional espresso. A blind sensory taste-test of 100 regular coffee drinkers showed participants could not tell the difference between the two methods, Trujillo said.

Did You Know? In a blind sensory taste-test involving 100 regular coffee drinkers, participants were unable to distinguish the ultrasonic brew from a normal espresso.

How could this affect coffee costs?

Coffee prices have climbed 37.5% since before the pandemic, according to La Marzocco Australia’s Future of Coffee Report. Average costs rose from AUD$4 (NZD$4.80) to AUD$5.50 (NZD$6.60), while specialty coffee now ranges from AUD$7 (NZD$8.50) to AUD$7.50 (NZD$9.10) per cup.

Trujillo suggested the system may provide cost relief for businesses. He noted the 75% energy saving is particularly beneficial at a commercial scale.

What are the commercial applications?

The technology could be integrated into automatic home coffee machines. However, Trujillo believes the primary opportunity likely lies with large-scale commercial producers of coffee-based drinks.

Ultrasonic Espresso – a game changer for the coffee industry?

Because the process creates a concentrated espresso-strength liquid, it may be used for ready-to-drink products. It could also be shipped as a concentrate for later dilution into milk-based drinks or cold brew.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the transition to room-temperature extraction could fundamentally alter the supply chain for ready-to-drink coffee. By removing the need for high-heat energy during the initial concentration phase, commercial producers may find a more sustainable path to scaling espresso-strength products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ultrasonic espresso?
It is a brewing process developed by University of New South Wales researchers that uses room-temperature water and high-frequency sound waves to create coffee with the richness and concentration of espresso in under three minutes.

How much energy does the system save?
According to Francisco Trujillo, the process provides a 75% energy saving compared to traditional methods.

Did consumers notice a difference in taste?
No. Trujillo stated that in a blind taste-test of 100 regular coffee drinkers, consumers could not tell the difference between the ultrasonic version and a normal espresso.

Would you switch to ultrasonic coffee if it lowered the price of your daily cup?

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