7. BioFabricating Materials¶
Research¶
Biomaterials in design refer to natural or engineered materials derived from biological sources, often applied to create eco-friendly, sustainable products. Common biomaterials include mycelium, algae, and bioplastics, which designers use to replace non-renewable materials like plastics and metals. These materials offer unique qualities, such as biodegradability, low environmental impact, and, in some cases, regenerative properties. In design, biomaterials are increasingly used for products like packaging, furniture, textiles, and even architecture, promoting circular economy principles and reducing waste in various industries.
References & Inspiration¶
Tina Gorjanc is a conceptual designer known for exploring ethical and environmental issues in biotechnology and material science. Her work often investigates the intersection of design and science, challenging conventions through projects that use speculative materials and processes. One of her most recognized projects involved creating leather-like materials from human DNA, raising questions about ethics, sustainability, and the future of biotechnology in design. Her work exemplifies how design can prompt conversations on technological and biological advancements.
- Tina Gorjac_s work
Edith Medina is a bio-artist and founder of Biology Studio in Mexico, a space that merges biology, design, and ancestral knowledge. Her studio focuses on biomaterials, artisanal techniques, and innovative scientific processes, particularly in textiles and sustainable materials. The studio’s philosophy combines technology, tradition, and local science to foster interdisciplinary learning and new creative practices.
- Edit Medina_s work
- Download reference
-Edith Medina -Tina Gorjac -Future material bank
Process and workflow¶
Ingredients & Recipe for bioceramics with eggshells¶
Prepare this recipe 1 by collecting the ingredients necessary, to be found in the list below:
* 300 grams of eggshells
* 10 grams of sodium alginate
* 200 ml
* Grinder: Used to finely crush and powder the cleaned eggshells, ensuring a consistent texture for optimal mixing with other ingredients.
* Strainer: Used to sift the powdered eggshells after grinding. This ensures a uniform texture by removing any larger particles or impurities, which can affect the consistency of the final mixture.
* Scale: Essential for accurately measuring the sodium alginate and eggshell powder, ensuring the right proportions for the biocomposite.
* Thermometer: Important for checking the temperature of the water, ensuring it reaches 95°C for effective dissolution of the sodium alginate.
* Prepare Eggshells: Clean and dry the eggshells, then grind them into a fine powder.
* Dissolve Sodium Alginate: In a bowl, mix 10 grams of sodium alginate with 200 ml of hot water (95°C), stirring until fully dissolved.
* Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the eggshell powder to the sodium alginate solution while stirring until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.
* Molding: Pour the mixture into molds or shape as desired.
* Setting: Allow it to cool and set until firm, which may take several hours.
* Drying: Once set, dry the material in a warm area to ensure durability.
Overview material research outcomes¶
example from the documentation of Loes Bogers TextileLab Amsterdam 2019-20
 Biofoam |
Gelatin foil |
Bioresin |
Biosilicone |
| Starch Rubber |
Biolinoleum |
Alginate net |
Alginate foil |
| Alginate string |
Agar foil |
Bio composite |
Reused PLA |
Tools¶
Documenting and comparing experiments¶
TEST SERIE BIO-PLASTIC¶
| Material pic | Material name | polymer | plastifier | filler | emulsifier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
bio-rainbow | biokelp powder 12 gr | glycerol 100 ml | rainbow dust 1 kg | green soap a drop |
|
bio-rainbow | biokelp powder 12 gr | glycerol 100 ml | rainbow dust 1 kg | green soap a drop |
|
bio-rainbow | biokelp powder 12 gr | glycerol 100 ml | rainbow dust 1 kg | green soap a drop |
|
bio-rainbow | biokelp powder 12 gr | glycerol 100 ml | rainbow dust 1 kg | green soap a drop |
RESULTS¶
Two ways of showcasing and comparing results with images below
On the left an image of a sample made by xxx with xxx. The dye is more xxx. On the right, an image of a sample made by xxx with xxx and xxx. Here the dye is more xxx.
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Recipes¶
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recipe: bioceramics eggshell ↩