Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of BrightBio biodegradable polyester made from bio-based polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA). This sample is 68% bio-based.
Rotation moulded high density polyethylene (HDPE) lid for a Thermos cooler box. The heavy texture, which is applied to the surface of the mould and reproduced in the plastic, helps to conceal moulding defects, as well as general wear and tear - PE is relatively soft and will scratch easily if bashed about in the back of a car and on the beach.
EVBox's new Livo electric vehicle charging wallbox is made with Makrolon RE polycarbonate (PC) from Covestro. Makrolon RE is produced proportionately from biowaste and residual materials, partly using renewable electricity, and therefore has a relatively lower carbon footprint. Image EVBox.
Glass sink with matt top coat and white backside colour, to create a feeling of depth and softness in the reflections. It is more difficult to maintain a clean looking surface on a high gloss surface.
Fernando Laposse is a designer who works with traditional materials in his home country of Mexico to make furniture and objects. This "hairy" furniture is made with sisal, derived from the leaves of the agave (tequila) plant.
Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of Viro polystyrene (PS) combined with UBQ additive (32%). The feedstock for UBQ is household waste, which is largely comprised of organic materials – everything from food residues and mixed plastics to cardboard, paper, and even dirty diapers, that would have otherwise been sent to landfill or incineration. Using this additive reduces the amount of plastic required, lowering the overall carbon footprint of parts.
Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of Prime Flex by Made of Air. While the polymer matrix is bio-based, the additive is produced from biochar that is derived from waste wood biomass leftover from production. If the sequestered carbon of the wood is taken into account then this results in a carbon negative product.
Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of polypropylene (PP) combined with UBQ additive (20%). The feedstock for UBQ is household waste, which is largely comprised of organic materials – everything from food residues and mixed plastics to cardboard, paper, and even dirty diapers, that would have otherwise been sent to landfill or incineration. Using this additive reduces the amount of plastic required, lowering the overall carbon footprint of parts.
Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of DuraSense Eco 40% wood-filled polypropylene (PP-40WF). Aimed at injection moulded luxury packaging, it is possible to combine the wood fibres with bioplastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA), resulting in a higher proportion of renewable content.
Positive Plastics injection moulded sample of Rilsan bio-based polyamide 11 (bio-PA11), nylon, by Arkema. This PA11 is made from castor oil. It is 100% bio-based, suitable for a range of applications and manufacturing processes including extrusion, blow moulding, injection moulding, rotation moulding and 3D printing.
Tecnaro Arboform injection moulded wood-based plastic toothbrush cup hoder. This innovative bioplastic is made with lignin, wood fibre and cellulose leftover from the paper-making process. It is mixed with some additives and suitable for injection moulding.
Tecnaro Arboform injection moulded wood-based plastic soap dish. This innovative bioplastic is made with lignin, wood fibre and cellulose leftover from the paper-making process. It is mixed with some additives and suitable for injection moulding.
Siemens glass ceramic cooktop panel, made with Schott Ceran, revealing the glowing heater element below. Transparency allows for a user-friendly design, such as displaying functionality and illuminated controls.
Recycle cotton yarns, held together with chains of lockstitch, used for kitchen cloths and industrial fabric for mopping up liquids. Cotton fibres are hollow and able to absorb a lot of water.
Annular by Todd Bracher Studio. An experimental piece for the fourth edition of Luminaire’s “Love” fundraising auctions to benefit cancer research. Image Todd Bracher Studio.
Positive Plastics injection moulded samples of Green Isoter recycled acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (rABS). It contains around 50% recycled industrial scrap with an intentional speckled finish. It is suitable for products, electronics, household items, automotive and toys, for example.
Spot Material is a database of materials for sustainable design, curated by Rob Thompson. Compare properties, carbon and end of life, find better alternatives and discover new material innovations. Browse all materials
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