Through a practice-based research into the development of a biomaterial palette,
I make a case for design processes to work with decay.
My research endeavours look at material formulation, mechanical properties, and experiential capabilities of biomaterials in industrial design, particularly in 3D printing and prototyping.
Decay as a transformative force.
This research explores the potential of collaborating with composting ecologies on the design process. Specifically, it examines how the formulation of a 3D printable and home-compostable biomaterial palette evolves when the design process begins with its disposal. By reversing the approach and starting from the end point of disposal, I trace our steps backward to inform the formulation of each material. Consequently, my research highlights the transformative effect of integrating composting ecologies into the design process, offering insights into the evolution of biomaterial formulation.
Integrating Decay in Industrial Design
Reframing decay as an integral component of the industrial design may initially appear counterintuitive. However, akin to other forms of nonhuman collaborations within design practice – i.e. biodesign or biomimicry – the central emphasis lies in the phenomenon of metamorphosis. This research explores ways of working with decyaing organisms to facilitate the reintegration of materials into nonhuman processes and lifecycles through a case study.
A Material-Led Exploration
This exploration is grounded in the Material-Driven Design framework proposed by Elvin Karana (2015) in which the design process is restructured by beginning from an assessment of materials, understanding and utilising the unique qualities and constraints of materials to create meaningful user experiences. In the spirit of nonhuman collaborations, this research assesses material qualities and constraints when designing with decaying ecologies, fused deposition modelling software, and industrial design processes.
Material Tests
Thus far, this research has worked with 6 off-the shelf materials, and 6 made by the designer. Each of these materials address 3D printing ecologies, and composting ecologies in different forms.
The materials were compounded using FelFil Evo Filamenter using a biopolymer as a base with fillers, copolymers, and plasticisers derived from organic sources. Resulting materials have been tested in three different forms using a Creality Ender 5 3D printer.
