https://biodesign.risd.edu RISD Biodesign Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:16:58 +0000 https://biodesign.risd.edu en https://biodesign.risd.edu/Homepage Mon, 15 Nov 2021 04:15:49 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Homepage <img width="725" height="226" width_o="725" height_o="226" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c46b7751848119caed1e8101267e8f2c9280184f006880e26cf1b093272f5e6a/RISD_Short.png" data-mid="124556149" border="0" data-scale="84" data-no-zoom src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/725/i/c46b7751848119caed1e8101267e8f2c9280184f006880e26cf1b093272f5e6a/RISD_Short.png" /> biodesign Biodesign (design with/for biology) has been a topic of inquiry at RISD since the term first gained popularity in the late 2000s. As early as 2003, students in Peter Yeadon’s FUTURE Studio were exploring applications for numerous products of biotechnology and nanobiotech, such as DNA molecular machines, dragline spider silk produced by cloned goats, tissue engineering on polymer scaffolds, bioluminescence in GMOs, and sticky byssal adhesives. Yeadon was also exploring the future of biotech at that time, and had just published his Transgenic Zoo 2020 project the year before, in 2002.&nbsp; By the end of that first decade of the 21st Century, Yeadon’s involvement in the synthetic biology community had increased and his&nbsp;NANOVATION Studio students were working with researchers to design low cost water test kits for Bangladesh that featured a new kind of whole-cell biosensor. The focus on biodesign expanded in the mid-2010s, when his GERM Studio students were working with researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center and NBBJ New York to reduce healthcare-associated infections in hospital environments, and students began working with biomaterials more frequently.&nbsp; Some of that early work is featured here, along with numerous biodesign projects that have been undertaken by his students since, including work from his&nbsp;Biodesign studio at RISD, his&nbsp;Biodesign NYC travel course in New York City, graduate thesis projects, independent+collaborative study projects, and other graduate works that he has supervised. The studies are presented under two broad categories – biomaterials (biological substances) and biosystems (bio-enabled systems and living systems) – although many might be characterized as both. Today, these interdisciplinary biodesign projects continue to engage some of the most ambitious aspects of RISD’s strategic plan, NEXT.&nbsp; For more information, contact:&nbsp; Peter Yeadon, Professor&nbsp; Department of Industrial Design Rhode Island School of Design pyeadon@risd.edu Featured Work&nbsp; <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bfdfc54fcc854b6f2a45bfe6e41d651c8f53791ced8bc789bc7c5eb95b0b6e82/bio-material-poster-4.jpg" data-mid="246681757" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bfdfc54fcc854b6f2a45bfe6e41d651c8f53791ced8bc789bc7c5eb95b0b6e82/bio-material-poster-4.jpg" /> BioLabel <img width="1440" height="1440" width_o="1440" height_o="1440" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/47d781e27b6e3ea8108e3910596deeb07e0f9de1afe076bb3050c70023c5f72d/rDSC_0793.jpg" data-mid="246824235" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/47d781e27b6e3ea8108e3910596deeb07e0f9de1afe076bb3050c70023c5f72d/rDSC_0793.jpg" /> Biocomposite Climbing Holds <img width="800" height="800" width_o="800" height_o="800" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f4a2e37b864f728cabefa4d1e7cf070717cc60d95b2dba92ec3d2e931dddab8e/SYNBIO.jpg" data-mid="197546063" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/800/i/f4a2e37b864f728cabefa4d1e7cf070717cc60d95b2dba92ec3d2e931dddab8e/SYNBIO.jpg" /> The SYNBIO Sensor <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6f1b70238ee63b55af4d055ef198c9d1150cd1e7c172d4c999a556f6b95bf82d/Yao-Wang-6.jpg" data-mid="246674857" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6f1b70238ee63b55af4d055ef198c9d1150cd1e7c172d4c999a556f6b95bf82d/Yao-Wang-6.jpg" /> ROOTY <img width="540" height="540" width_o="540" height_o="540" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4ac29eac1a02f4d7eecdd597488e8f4027a52077ae094f6725cfc08cd30be1d5/Jin-Tony-Yechen.jpg" data-mid="170344069" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/540/i/4ac29eac1a02f4d7eecdd597488e8f4027a52077ae094f6725cfc08cd30be1d5/Jin-Tony-Yechen.jpg" /> Breathing <img width="800" height="800" width_o="800" height_o="800" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4be575aa717f44dde23b6a4b33ba729c50a3a5de32c66141e7eae207d1141307/Chien-Lu-0.jpg" data-mid="162945993" border="0" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/800/i/4be575aa717f44dde23b6a4b33ba729c50a3a5de32c66141e7eae207d1141307/Chien-Lu-0.jpg" /> Biodegradable Bio-silicone <img width="2000" height="2000" width_o="2000" height_o="2000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5d3c3e287770525c0e2cc3a0bf2e82cec36500e113fd83f370be894b37b5fda7/BD-F21-Masathienvong-4.jpg" data-mid="125883681" border="0" data-no-zoom src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5d3c3e287770525c0e2cc3a0bf2e82cec36500e113fd83f370be894b37b5fda7/BD-F21-Masathienvong-4.jpg" /> Bioplastics Lighting Design <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/557199f8331de0bbbecc72e5eb2aab3887a9eec4f832923c768da83d94b935e1/BD-F21-Cochran-1-SQ.jpg" data-mid="128030017" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/557199f8331de0bbbecc72e5eb2aab3887a9eec4f832923c768da83d94b935e1/BD-F21-Cochran-1-SQ.jpg" /> Bioplastics Photoluminescence&nbsp; <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fbc5a0bc8bf872c9fef7181e45927abeecbc5e3f802a5f603f8d4d5122fa73dd/DSC_0714.jpg" data-mid="246683558" border="0" data-no-zoom src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/fbc5a0bc8bf872c9fef7181e45927abeecbc5e3f802a5f603f8d4d5122fa73dd/DSC_0714.jpg" /> Mollusk Masonry <img width="977" height="977" width_o="977" height_o="977" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2b74d0f541447e107dfbe948d907f90e380dc666a85549bdbaf7d492b6de0a69/TH-S21-Huang-41sq.jpg" data-mid="129949853" border="0" data-no-zoom src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/977/i/2b74d0f541447e107dfbe948d907f90e380dc666a85549bdbaf7d492b6de0a69/TH-S21-Huang-41sq.jpg" /> INTER <img width="1484" height="1484" width_o="1484" height_o="1484" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/09f0104b29843ffed8489229bda5029012639bed85767e38f075d5a292af0c93/RISD_Seal.png" data-mid="124649261" border="0" data-scale="7" data-no-zoom data-icon-mode src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/09f0104b29843ffed8489229bda5029012639bed85767e38f075d5a292af0c93/RISD_Seal.png" />&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Rhode Island School of Design | 20 Washington Street | Providence, RI 02903 https://biodesign.risd.edu/Shell-Luxury Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:26:37 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Shell-Luxury Shell Luxury <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/3a01b3f627b87d4cae0a9f7e1b8c102de20b668ad5fecc4c95b6a42600bd0abf/DSC_0701.jpg" data-mid="246770883" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/3a01b3f627b87d4cae0a9f7e1b8c102de20b668ad5fecc4c95b6a42600bd0abf/DSC_0701.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/40ac86b950555fb409d2ceeeb8070842f5d75029ca1c495f0d8edfdb48e20516/IMG_0294.jpg" data-mid="246770886" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/40ac86b950555fb409d2ceeeb8070842f5d75029ca1c495f0d8edfdb48e20516/IMG_0294.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/81f05ed494a70209484647458bd2007fb5fca5afc047064f33c4226c89fcb22d/IMG_0098.jpg" data-mid="246770884" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/81f05ed494a70209484647458bd2007fb5fca5afc047064f33c4226c89fcb22d/IMG_0098.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Rony Guo &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon Eggshells represents a substantial yet underutilized waste stream from global egg consumption. Worldwide egg production has soared in recent decades, and estimates suggest that between 7.8 and 10.4 million metric tons of chicken eggshells are discarded as waste annually. Because shells account for roughly 9–12% of an egg’s total weight, this results in an enormous volume of mineral-rich residue. A significant portion of this waste comes from the egg-processing industry, where large-scale egg-breaking plants generate concentrated streams of shells during mass separation of whites and yolks for commercial food manufacturing. When discarded untreated, these shells often end up in landfills or incinerators, contributing to environmental burdens such as waste-management costs, increased landfill volume, and potential odor from residual organic matter. <img width="1440" height="1920" width_o="1440" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/dc977dc9fb530d72d80d5254a3b859960e468e99162b3488cad6598e76bd58b1/298bbe17c5a4af87b7479b67588333c5.jpg" data-mid="246770877" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/dc977dc9fb530d72d80d5254a3b859960e468e99162b3488cad6598e76bd58b1/298bbe17c5a4af87b7479b67588333c5.jpg" /> <img width="1440" height="1920" width_o="1440" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b553f85a82164b41def7d6cf892d3a7cadac92d37abe68390cd7562bd2f7a9d0/IMG_0401.jpg" data-mid="246770887" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b553f85a82164b41def7d6cf892d3a7cadac92d37abe68390cd7562bd2f7a9d0/IMG_0401.jpg" /> <img width="1440" height="1920" width_o="1440" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/dd626961661800a31d09caa3bae6d35be1827fe97246a3d3dcc2df236a5171e5/dfdfbedec51419ea199d41b0849ee304.jpg" data-mid="246770878" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/dd626961661800a31d09caa3bae6d35be1827fe97246a3d3dcc2df236a5171e5/dfdfbedec51419ea199d41b0849ee304.jpg" /> Because producing eggshell yarn requires more time, labor, and material processing than conventional plastic bottle wrapping, it is not intended for mass-market packaging. Using eggshell yarn to protect expensive wine or ceramic bottles positions the material as a luxury, eco-conscious alternative that enhances the product’s storytelling and perceived value. In this context, the unique mineral texture and artisanal quality of the packaging become features rather than limitations, making it suitable for limited editions, gift sets, or high-end brands that prioritize distinctive, sustainable design. The protective packaging is made from eggshell calcium carbonate and biodegradable binders such as alginate and glycerin, and can be safely composted or added to soil. Crushed eggshells are well documented as effective soil additives, gradually releasing calcium carbonate that lowers acidity. To improve breakdown, the rigid yarn structure should be crushed into smaller pieces before composting, similar to how finely ground eggshells decompose more efficiently. Research on eggshell-based composites also shows that these materials are non-toxic and biodegradable when free of synthetic coatings, making them suitable for end-of-life disposal through organic waste or compost systems. <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d75996c0087169af3174f412f44d7a26c0bf2fb3bc7fd3d8e0f4cc6036a62e77/IMG_0285.jpg" data-mid="246770885" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d75996c0087169af3174f412f44d7a26c0bf2fb3bc7fd3d8e0f4cc6036a62e77/IMG_0285.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2aa322e399df2cd71070e7bd5740a72a42f594a97d12422fab54177c05123cb2/IMG_0603.jpg" data-mid="246770888" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2aa322e399df2cd71070e7bd5740a72a42f594a97d12422fab54177c05123cb2/IMG_0603.jpg" /> References Gacem, Amel, et al. “Valorization of Eggshell Waste as Sustainable Mechanical Reinforcement in Biodegradable Bio-Packaging Materials.” Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, vol. 23, no. 2666-1543, 20 Aug. 2025, p. 102273.&nbsp;https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2025.102273Luna, F. S. M., Alves, A. E., &amp; Holanda, J. N. F. (2025). Evaluating the Use of Chicken Eggshell Waste for Synthesizing Nano-Sized Calcium Aluminate Powder by Combining High-Energy Milling and Calcination. Powders, 4(4), 31. https://doi.org/10.3390/powders4040031Ngayakamo, B., &amp; Onwualu, A. P. (2022). Recent advances in green processing technologies for valorisation of eggshell waste for sustainable construction materials. Heliyon, 8(6), e09649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09649Rati Sulegaon. Eggshells as fertilizer in horticulture practices. Int J Hortic Food Sci 2025;7(3):32-34. https://doi.org/10.33545/26631067.2025.v7.i3a.277Vigneron, T. Q. G., &amp; Holanda, J. N. F. (2024). Effect of Recycling Chicken Eggshell Waste as a Pore-Forming Mineral Source in Low-Water-Absorption Bi-Layered Red Ceramic Tiles. Minerals, 14(12), 1285. https://doi.org/10.3390/min14121285 https://biodesign.risd.edu/Biocomposite-Climbing-Holds Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:49:58 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Biocomposite-Climbing-Holds Biocomposite Climbing Holds <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/408192cba55536827714fa179f57eb9ea69cf43c1448390a0729caa57b26d53f/DSC_0753.jpg" data-mid="246823677" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/408192cba55536827714fa179f57eb9ea69cf43c1448390a0729caa57b26d53f/DSC_0753.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/35db09ea283af26098f4d89e0782769f0403ab02d8c119f0348afc7fab429fa4/01-Samples.jpg" data-mid="246823670" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/35db09ea283af26098f4d89e0782769f0403ab02d8c119f0348afc7fab429fa4/01-Samples.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6de3de34dffbb7cddfb6ed14ded69df68483f198becaa804104f05851c87febb/02-Samples.jpg" data-mid="246823671" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6de3de34dffbb7cddfb6ed14ded69df68483f198becaa804104f05851c87febb/02-Samples.jpg" /> ︎ Creators: Uma Freitag and Josh White &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon For this project, we set out to create a structural biomaterial that could act as a reliable support while also being biodegradable. We explored several early recipes, including agar, rice husk composites, and varous concrete-like biomaterials made with wood ash, cornstarch, and seashell. Ultimately, we returned to a sample that had previously been made. That earlier composite was extremely dense, rock hard, and easy to sand and shape, but it relied on spackle and wood glue, which did not align with our goal of creating a fully sustainable material. We rethought the composition of that sample and began refining new recipes that replaced the synthetic binders with gelatin. Our final recipe blended dried leaves, sawdust, newspaper fibers, water, dye, and gelatin. The mix of different particle sizes created a natural internal structure similar to concrete, where larger fragments provide bulk and smaller fibers fill the gaps. To achieve stronger parts, we created pressure molds that allowed us to compress the material as it cured, resulting in higher density and greater load bearing capacity. Along the way, we experimented with natural dyes such as indigo, cochineal, logwood, and charcoal, but ultimately chose synthetic dyes for their more saturated colors, which helped our samples visually align with real bouldering walls for presentation purposes. <img width="1920" height="2880" width_o="1920" height_o="2880" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b077c83724919094d19f678ebd0d37c5372e5362a1eaea63ca311458738b5e3d/DSC_0793.jpg" data-mid="246823664" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b077c83724919094d19f678ebd0d37c5372e5362a1eaea63ca311458738b5e3d/DSC_0793.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="2880" width_o="1920" height_o="2880" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b59715d5f04b0f96a677764bdd6416f8c2a779c11095209b56a649a09c49e20d/DSC_0755.jpg" data-mid="246823660" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b59715d5f04b0f96a677764bdd6416f8c2a779c11095209b56a649a09c49e20d/DSC_0755.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="2880" width_o="1920" height_o="2880" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/694fd1cb412006c70198fa81a9f12bafec38becc5e57388f6fc530e9f7b91596/DSC_0738.jpg" data-mid="246823659" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/694fd1cb412006c70198fa81a9f12bafec38becc5e57388f6fc530e9f7b91596/DSC_0738.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="2880" width_o="1920" height_o="2880" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/831843b70fc7f981ebd9c14469bf55830a2b249afc2d0c6ca3af6d039cc4759c/DSC_0735.jpg" data-mid="246823658" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/831843b70fc7f981ebd9c14469bf55830a2b249afc2d0c6ca3af6d039cc4759c/DSC_0735.jpg" /> Through our shared love for bouldering, a ropeless form of rockclimbing, we speculated on whether we could create climbing holds out of our biomaterial. We digitally modeled and printed three-part molds, cast our first samples, and dried them in a dehydrator before letting them finish curing in open air. After bolting them to a wall, we revealed that a single hold could take at least 72 kg (160 lbs.) without breaking. This was when we realized our biocomposite was sturdy enough to support real climbing weight, which led us to pursue a full-scale climbing wall for our final project. To bring the installation to life, we built a wooden frame to mount the holds and constructed a modular climbing section for the classroom. We created a range of mold designs to replicate common climbing hold types such as footholds, pinches, crimps, and jugs, demonstrating the versatility of the material. During our final presentation, we encouraged classmates and visitors to test the wall themselves, inviting people to trust the composite rather than fear the idea of a biodegradable material supporting their weight. As climbing holds are primarily manufactured from polyurethane (PU) or polyester resin (PE), the installation became an interactive demonstration of a reliable and sustainable alternative that can be primarily made with waste materials. <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/60adf6821a5b5cfd45f72e8585acda0d061b9ed1b3993211dfd67d158b6f881a/DSC_0525.jpg" data-mid="246823672" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/60adf6821a5b5cfd45f72e8585acda0d061b9ed1b3993211dfd67d158b6f881a/DSC_0525.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/172af8ce730479fbc0f8f27a4c3f7c63df608f2a4586b1c49d4f013d42140b0e/DSC_0548.jpg" data-mid="246823673" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/172af8ce730479fbc0f8f27a4c3f7c63df608f2a4586b1c49d4f013d42140b0e/DSC_0548.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c448d30a8ec3b9911048c71ccfc5d4d03ec13c98ccd6afdc8633d063a3e771aa/DSC_0567.jpg" data-mid="246823674" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c448d30a8ec3b9911048c71ccfc5d4d03ec13c98ccd6afdc8633d063a3e771aa/DSC_0567.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4e4b0c15a52027b2228af1a1f773931766dd05d22dad00313aba409c6371932d/IMG_3420.jpg" data-mid="246823680" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4e4b0c15a52027b2228af1a1f773931766dd05d22dad00313aba409c6371932d/IMG_3420.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/272fef9aba1e974be9f50587bd7d5de5cca7c063305143c10c0950c422a8ea71/IMG_8524.jpg" data-mid="246823681" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/272fef9aba1e974be9f50587bd7d5de5cca7c063305143c10c0950c422a8ea71/IMG_8524.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/38df3dbb49db09b4bff13ebb1738e8b83371cedebc185c2d91ecfd8a15819a3f/DSC_0580.jpg" data-mid="246823675" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/38df3dbb49db09b4bff13ebb1738e8b83371cedebc185c2d91ecfd8a15819a3f/DSC_0580.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b3d638122bc57ff20fdf5e369b4372a39317c13c005c82f4d07724d4e366ae2e/DSC_0637.jpg" data-mid="246823676" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b3d638122bc57ff20fdf5e369b4372a39317c13c005c82f4d07724d4e366ae2e/DSC_0637.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e7df8df4793858dc87ba504451c76a46355c05a504a7f1e5a421fc82230f50b8/Recipe-image.jpg" data-mid="246823682" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e7df8df4793858dc87ba504451c76a46355c05a504a7f1e5a421fc82230f50b8/Recipe-image.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/Eggshell-Urn Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:58:28 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Eggshell-Urn Eggshell Urn <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/19c254f1f8d1fed4ee053ce501a9897c30de6ae256165e82f58442928e9b50d6/DSC_0767.jpg" data-mid="246763774" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/19c254f1f8d1fed4ee053ce501a9897c30de6ae256165e82f58442928e9b50d6/DSC_0767.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/e1547ee6ef6c260fbcd1aee9f86421dcfa23f543a2a2e58dda2d05f7ab1a481f/DSC_0769.jpg" data-mid="246763780" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/e1547ee6ef6c260fbcd1aee9f86421dcfa23f543a2a2e58dda2d05f7ab1a481f/DSC_0769.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b8f398bb811c08cce9eb2341caaa46ab3d7c0d27d178ffdc280ca280e1863d5a/DSC_0765.jpg" data-mid="246763768" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b8f398bb811c08cce9eb2341caaa46ab3d7c0d27d178ffdc280ca280e1863d5a/DSC_0765.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5039c451469ccca03c27cf8ffbaf6e0e5903a69cff956866382d29029542579c/DSC_0764.jpg" data-mid="246763765" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5039c451469ccca03c27cf8ffbaf6e0e5903a69cff956866382d29029542579c/DSC_0764.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/794d39c5fed8916fdb1f002619c48082b779b7417a578d5ceb61b9fb95e48265/DSC_0763.jpg" data-mid="246763762" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/794d39c5fed8916fdb1f002619c48082b779b7417a578d5ceb61b9fb95e48265/DSC_0763.jpg" /> <img width="2500" height="1666" width_o="2500" height_o="1666" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/09587b2c4f95626f4bbe52b271360bc609fd2820ad55f79bbfdbb53b44f66501/Printout-1_-Biodegradable-Egg-Ceramic-Urn-Overview.jpg" data-mid="246763901" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/09587b2c4f95626f4bbe52b271360bc609fd2820ad55f79bbfdbb53b44f66501/Printout-1_-Biodegradable-Egg-Ceramic-Urn-Overview.jpg" /> <img width="2500" height="1666" width_o="2500" height_o="1666" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5c347b7969e38c805cf03cdb80facb0733b34bd9b0d2177f2fcc8de5c0af0b5e/Printout-2_-How-to-Use.jpg" data-mid="246763904" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5c347b7969e38c805cf03cdb80facb0733b34bd9b0d2177f2fcc8de5c0af0b5e/Printout-2_-How-to-Use.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Celine Huang &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon In this project, I worked with an eggshell-based “ceramic” by experimenting with various consistencies, colors, and constructions of the material to discover its functional properties and create a product informed by them. I began with a simple, three-ingredient eggshell biomaterial recipe from the Materiom website that called for 24 g of eggshell powder, 5 g of gelatin powder, and 12 ml of water. Once combined, these ingredients turn into a thick, sandy liquid that can be poured into, or over, a mold. In my first experiments, I did not have access to a blender, so I hand-ground the eggshells, which created a shiny, almost coral-like sculpture when poured over an inflated glove. I was fascinated by the way this solid material captured the organic drips and flow of its liquid state, and decided to keep working with this basic recipe.&nbsp;In the following weeks, I tested finer eggshell powders that maintained some sparkliness while binding better with the gelatin. I also added different pigments for color, and combined multiple colors in a single structure. I tested different ways to manipulate the structure by pouring it into molds or onto surfaces, observing how the mixture behaved. However, I discovered that while the material may harden into a ceramic-like texture and feel, it cannot function the same way ceramics can, due to its water solubility and heat sensitivity. Because gelatin is the primary binder, the material dissolves easily in water, so it cannot function as a vase or other water-containing vessels; and, it melts in heat, so it cannot function as a soup bowl or even a coaster. <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6edbfb188c3ef81665e3e6c30d90303c35cd2f5403e8d0e6c7c9cffec808f05c/DSC_0766.jpg" data-mid="246763771" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6edbfb188c3ef81665e3e6c30d90303c35cd2f5403e8d0e6c7c9cffec808f05c/DSC_0766.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6d5d6e7ead489c88d80d814bc95662dd1fc6f600ca43f240cd97fa995cbb36f0/DSC_0768.jpg" data-mid="246763777" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6d5d6e7ead489c88d80d814bc95662dd1fc6f600ca43f240cd97fa995cbb36f0/DSC_0768.jpg" /> Urns are a type of vessel that explicitly holds ashes, which are a dry material, and is either kept in a safe place or buried in the ground where it is allowed to degrade. An urn made out of my eggshell “ceramic” material is able to remain solid on a shelf, while biodegrading easily in wet soil later. Hence, this use optimizes the eggshell biocomposite’s material properties — it works well for the purposes of an urn, for the same reason that it fails as a typical ceramic object. Thinking more closely about the biodegradation of the material in soil, I realized that eggshells and gelatin contain calcium and nitrogen respectively, and both nutrients are extremely beneficial for plant health. In my eggshell ceramic urn, I decided to embed flower seeds into the material, which, after the urn biodegrades, use the calcium and nitrogen released by the urn to grow. The person whose ashes are contained in the urn can thus choose what flowers or other plants they would like to grow at their gravesite, serving as a beautiful method of rebirth and remembrance. Using the recipes I developed in my material experiments, I mimicked methods used in dessert-making to create the contained form of the urn. Further steps for this project would be to do more research into the effects of human remains on the growth of plants to determine if plant growth from the urn is feasible, or what kind of plants would be optimal in those conditions. More experiments would also be done to refine the urn-making process. <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7fb8cec492fa05aa445e0a7b0caf03baf9b8e04e4f073cb5a3749d0da44faec4/Experiment-1-Recipe_-Rough-Eggshells-Horizontal-Pour.jpg" data-mid="246765772" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7fb8cec492fa05aa445e0a7b0caf03baf9b8e04e4f073cb5a3749d0da44faec4/Experiment-1-Recipe_-Rough-Eggshells-Horizontal-Pour.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/8ee88519d67200a419a41f68344487af2e5c4c5181bf0f615397f8d591a974e2/Experiment-2-Recipe_-Rough-Eggshells-Vertical-Pour.jpg" data-mid="246765774" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/8ee88519d67200a419a41f68344487af2e5c4c5181bf0f615397f8d591a974e2/Experiment-2-Recipe_-Rough-Eggshells-Vertical-Pour.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f7c6fe4ac56b17a9233b435296b5f2ee74c618aa325d8f7e9a17674d5f85dbff/Experiment-3-Recipe_-Fine-Eggshells.jpg" data-mid="246765777" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f7c6fe4ac56b17a9233b435296b5f2ee74c618aa325d8f7e9a17674d5f85dbff/Experiment-3-Recipe_-Fine-Eggshells.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1325c846a3a9b24db07db59933a84f73799392f2811fafa16e3ba7d13c0dc790/Experiment-4-Recipe_-Adding-Color.jpg" data-mid="246765779" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1325c846a3a9b24db07db59933a84f73799392f2811fafa16e3ba7d13c0dc790/Experiment-4-Recipe_-Adding-Color.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/507319563a492d83addcd0774b99a1e3b445594112cef6a86a85a5c36aa037f0/Experiment-5-Recipe_-Beads---Biodegradation-Test.jpg" data-mid="246765782" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/507319563a492d83addcd0774b99a1e3b445594112cef6a86a85a5c36aa037f0/Experiment-5-Recipe_-Beads---Biodegradation-Test.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7a8fab99ca78775aab7cc13e17188d710a11ee7cad1f55e3c95519afb1cc1251/Experiment-6-Recipe_-Color-Block-Tests.jpg" data-mid="246765786" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7a8fab99ca78775aab7cc13e17188d710a11ee7cad1f55e3c95519afb1cc1251/Experiment-6-Recipe_-Color-Block-Tests.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f8c5b46b702d1aedfbedafda13815393bf0e5b8c3f5289c683ef7bd8e6ad30e6/Experiment-7-Recipe_-Urn-Making-Tests.jpg" data-mid="246765789" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f8c5b46b702d1aedfbedafda13815393bf0e5b8c3f5289c683ef7bd8e6ad30e6/Experiment-7-Recipe_-Urn-Making-Tests.jpg" /> <img width="2550" height="4200" width_o="2550" height_o="4200" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9923d0825ea4030bd8edb310f60214a13b9a8cef65c7f75a24ec4181a51ab66a/Experiment-8-Recipe_-Final-Urns.jpg" data-mid="246765792" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9923d0825ea4030bd8edb310f60214a13b9a8cef65c7f75a24ec4181a51ab66a/Experiment-8-Recipe_-Final-Urns.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/O-range Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:07:50 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/O-range O-range <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0fe4e3e20bf120ee515c7a44262321b6cf988c62119e5278db8e37a5c1fd548f/6.jpg" data-mid="246761979" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0fe4e3e20bf120ee515c7a44262321b6cf988c62119e5278db8e37a5c1fd548f/6.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1360" width_o="1920" height_o="1360" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ff9f3ff51e55ac2ca41aad23156f65bf0feb4c8b4fe2e4e40ac0bf3c0104e4bc/3.jpg" data-mid="246761976" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ff9f3ff51e55ac2ca41aad23156f65bf0feb4c8b4fe2e4e40ac0bf3c0104e4bc/3.jpg" /> ︎ Creators: Aryan Gupta and Sandy Tsang &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon Each year, the planet produces 60 million tons of oranges. Alongside them, 32 million tons of peels are discarded. Yet within every peel lies a naturally warm palette, a uniquely tactile surface, and patterns formed by nature.&nbsp; O-range exists to reveal this overlooked elegance. Stemming from the idea of repurposing orange peel waste into resources, the O-range lamp uses the radiance glow from the natural orange color. Through careful dehydration and bioplastic preservation, the peels gain structure, longevity, and a rich organic texture. The dried peels strengthen the bioplastic, while glycerol determines flexibility, allowing us to tailor each formula. Additionally, orange peels bring natural warmth to lighting, furniture, and home goods through their inherent color, translucency, and texture. The peels can provide natural pigmentation, avoiding the pollution, energy use, and toxicity associated with synthetic dyes and industrial furniture processing. The design of the lamp is a motif for the orange shape, where the orange bioplastic is made to look like the “pulp” of the orange, surrounded by a “skin” of wood.&nbsp; <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9fb72c5f7060f7c340305c01a7e73849762842d4276c323cfcad02c347417376/IMG_8161.jpg" data-mid="246761985" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9fb72c5f7060f7c340305c01a7e73849762842d4276c323cfcad02c347417376/IMG_8161.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/feda2a7b84b4ede3383ef01eaba0ecdf2f820639d6ba4e211438652d43a8781f/IMG_9173.jpg" data-mid="246761988" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/feda2a7b84b4ede3383ef01eaba0ecdf2f820639d6ba4e211438652d43a8781f/IMG_9173.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/14c380c29c4c9fe8690a32b8d154183bbf3ca474d434910d4546e7d5a43c87ae/IMG_9166.jpg" data-mid="246761987" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/14c380c29c4c9fe8690a32b8d154183bbf3ca474d434910d4546e7d5a43c87ae/IMG_9166.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c8d4a3195f02fe6420737b560e9685f9c032df8cd116a96ccbe34562fbab924c/IMG_9197.jpg" data-mid="246761990" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c8d4a3195f02fe6420737b560e9685f9c032df8cd116a96ccbe34562fbab924c/IMG_9197.jpg" /> We have only made one lamp, however, our ambitions are to transform orange peel byproducts into refined materials for contemporary interiors. Through manipulating the quantities of glycerol, we are able to create other applications for orange bioplastic. Tiles are made with less glycerol for firmness; lighting pieces use more for pliability and sculptural form. <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/105a18aaaa200a8708d367991788700791c50504896b31635303e0932d6da458/DSC_0779.jpg" data-mid="246761982" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/105a18aaaa200a8708d367991788700791c50504896b31635303e0932d6da458/DSC_0779.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/24680cf161b693193a4c5dedeaef02fdfcd68e242868b63d00f5f26a7bf36e24/DSC_0781.jpg" data-mid="246761984" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/24680cf161b693193a4c5dedeaef02fdfcd68e242868b63d00f5f26a7bf36e24/DSC_0781.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4055fe83231b339cd496dc50f2f34d5daad010705d385f69f88b9c7986b4a1f7/DSC_0780.jpg" data-mid="246761983" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4055fe83231b339cd496dc50f2f34d5daad010705d385f69f88b9c7986b4a1f7/DSC_0780.jpg" /> While today’s market is flooded with short-lived “fast furniture,” O-range offers a different path. In 2017 alone, furniture waste reached 12.2 million tons. Our materials create a circular alternative, where instead of contributing to methane emissions in landfills, each peel becomes a durable, meaningful object. Because orange peels are globally abundant, our model supports local sourcing and decentralized, community-centered production. Our focus is elevating circularity through aesthetics. O-range is a reminder that nature itself is a designer, and its forms deserve to be seen, not discarded. Minimal, tactile, and rooted in nature, our materials offer a distinct visual language shaped entirely by the fruit they come from. Presenting O-range ... a range of designs made from orange waste, where waste becomes worth. <img width="1440" height="1440" width_o="1440" height_o="1440" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/aef91095ba87738f0e06a9c26c5c7e05b1ca4409c120aa33bee2fec86c6db9b4/1.jpg" data-mid="246761974" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/aef91095ba87738f0e06a9c26c5c7e05b1ca4409c120aa33bee2fec86c6db9b4/1.jpg" /> <img width="1440" height="1440" width_o="1440" height_o="1440" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b22c4ff0da9fcdebf24e7394ea40001661e83276f81c7027b8abc0aa461e337e/2.jpg" data-mid="246761975" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b22c4ff0da9fcdebf24e7394ea40001661e83276f81c7027b8abc0aa461e337e/2.jpg" /> <img width="1440" height="1440" width_o="1440" height_o="1440" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2f724b831c5abdef536a20c5b45dd74d5ac52b19c9303ffcd6818bc7cb3aee3f/5.jpg" data-mid="246761978" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2f724b831c5abdef536a20c5b45dd74d5ac52b19c9303ffcd6818bc7cb3aee3f/5.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b02623e954b45ead509ba71c8d05692622df3665478951bb7920c3225957c1c2/IMG_9180.jpg" data-mid="246761989" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b02623e954b45ead509ba71c8d05692622df3665478951bb7920c3225957c1c2/IMG_9180.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/Biodegradable-Costumes Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:16:58 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Biodegradable-Costumes Biodegradable Costumes <img width="646" height="590" width_o="646" height_o="590" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/31845cd210052ff37f8e6d0911314544e941fc1791e804a0ce1912a0e18da01a/Costume-Example1.jpg" data-mid="246824933" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/646/i/31845cd210052ff37f8e6d0911314544e941fc1791e804a0ce1912a0e18da01a/Costume-Example1.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/64a53339c3204d23e60b7b010dfa9db2e0af54029f1096eb67ed5782a7c750ea/IMG_8151.jpg" data-mid="246824936" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/64a53339c3204d23e60b7b010dfa9db2e0af54029f1096eb67ed5782a7c750ea/IMG_8151.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Claire Wu &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon This project focused on creating a biodegradable, leather-like fabric made of starch, gelatin, glycerol, and water. The fabric is designed as a short-term wearable textile suitable for one-time-use costumes, such as Halloween outfits, performance costumes, themed-event costumes, or children’s costume play. These garments are typically bought, worn briefly, and discarded, contributing significantly to landfill waste. The bio-based fabric provides an environmentally responsible alternative that maintains costume functionality while reducing long-lasting synthetic pollution. <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b82c42dcfe59f86d710420e6f15dc3068345217e80b197727c7f64783e09f651/IMG_8149.jpg" data-mid="246824934" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b82c42dcfe59f86d710420e6f15dc3068345217e80b197727c7f64783e09f651/IMG_8149.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/673f9f2c8cd42de85af1b553dd68d3abd39f26419c8a24793c3b91ab0e8243eb/IMG_8150.jpg" data-mid="246824935" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/673f9f2c8cd42de85af1b553dd68d3abd39f26419c8a24793c3b91ab0e8243eb/IMG_8150.jpg" /> This artifact is a disposable costume designed using the biodegradable, leather-like fabric. The costume is created specifically for a single short-term experience, and its visual language expresses structural strength. The costume is designed to show the quality of the materials, with structural parts and flexible parts. The costume is designed around a character whose costume is a core part of her identity: Character Arc She begins with divine authority Her mission has a time limit She exists for the prophecy The prophecy unfolds, she begins to decay Transparency Material PropertiesSoft, leather-like touch Flexible yet structured Semi-transparent options Moisture-sensitive Fully biodegradable Material BehaviorThe fabric starts stiff, structured, leather-like The fabric has a short but functional lifespan Fabric cut out specifically for the design It is suitable for disposable, short-term, and environmentally friendly designs It can play with light effects, textures, and dyeing Relevance to Costume DesignComfortable and familiar tactile quality Holds dramatic shapes, volume, and silhouettes Supports creative lighting effects and patterns Encourages disposal after use without long-term waste Safe degradation after event use <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b8a366b94a9811396ebb34df1fefac8d508d92e6beef92cb2bcd52e7f4d92ffb/Sketch2.jpg" data-mid="246824938" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b8a366b94a9811396ebb34df1fefac8d508d92e6beef92cb2bcd52e7f4d92ffb/Sketch2.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="4970" width_o="1920" height_o="4970" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/decc59d2a7816808066aa4255f31580487570118abacf5a635bd605d938f15c1/Recipe-and-Experiment-Outcome.jpg" data-mid="246824937" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/decc59d2a7816808066aa4255f31580487570118abacf5a635bd605d938f15c1/Recipe-and-Experiment-Outcome.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/Mollusk-Masonry Mon, 30 Mar 2026 20:04:24 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Mollusk-Masonry Mollusk Masonry <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5cfdafb6b80f530d469db8a40e4bb158ec3d48c27d0e6a600a752b5586dfaaf7/DSC_0716.jpg" data-mid="246683241" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5cfdafb6b80f530d469db8a40e4bb158ec3d48c27d0e6a600a752b5586dfaaf7/DSC_0716.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/59558ea69a52020246088443aa2796a549c9a57cba42386dc4c1429e6a5e681e/DSC_0725.jpg" data-mid="246683242" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/59558ea69a52020246088443aa2796a549c9a57cba42386dc4c1429e6a5e681e/DSC_0725.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1280" width_o="1920" height_o="1280" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/15b6b6be51b7eadb38ae68def6faba181a104f018a716ff5832dae0c53157796/DSC_0714.jpg" data-mid="246683240" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/15b6b6be51b7eadb38ae68def6faba181a104f018a716ff5832dae0c53157796/DSC_0714.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Sofia Castano &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon For this biomaterial project, I knew I wanted to experiment with using mollusk shells, such as mussel, oyster, and clam shell as the foundation of my exploration. I conducted initial research on shells in the local region of Rhode Island and learned that most are sent to landfills after the meat is consumed at restaurants. I also recognized that the inherent qualities of shells would make them strong candidates for material experimentation. Although I did not have a clear idea for the final artifact at the beginning, I knew I wanted to emphasize and explore the natural properties of shells through biomaterial development. To source the shells, I visited local restaurants and asked for their waste scraps. During this process, I learned that shells are typically thrown away or, composted. Before using them in my experiments, I prepared the shells by boiling, baking, and crushing them into a fine powder. Through this process, I found that mussel shells were the easiest to prepare and grind, while clam and oyster shells were much harder and took significantly longer to crush. For time saving purposes I bought oyster shell powder to ease the laborious process. <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0692209bc6c362dad7f789e99ab265f76bed8b3969482704da4c312d08ae28a7/IMG_0921.jpg" data-mid="246683325" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0692209bc6c362dad7f789e99ab265f76bed8b3969482704da4c312d08ae28a7/IMG_0921.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/28315133d96c029d38c72d1e784aa45df2b52e606711e7105f1ea664b412ed54/IMG_0925.jpg" data-mid="246683326" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/28315133d96c029d38c72d1e784aa45df2b52e606711e7105f1ea664b412ed54/IMG_0925.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/17ec69cda6e5f177ebc5d4ac3913b891174ef1954a1104caa56a159d480ed8c5/IMG_0926.jpg" data-mid="246683327" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/17ec69cda6e5f177ebc5d4ac3913b891174ef1954a1104caa56a159d480ed8c5/IMG_0926.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/30ba9bd3785171aa8f45d3f845c9fba59c83bea3d20d737227b1c4e11b892507/IMG_0844.jpg" data-mid="246683324" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/30ba9bd3785171aa8f45d3f845c9fba59c83bea3d20d737227b1c4e11b892507/IMG_0844.jpg" /> During the experimentation phase, I used a variety of recipes from the Materiom website as a starting point for my explorations. I discovered that sodium alginate worked best as a binder, particularly when combined with shells of varying grit sizes, rom very fine to semi-coarse. However, it did not perform well in terms of water resistance. As a result, I continued experimenting to enhance the water resistance of the material. I tested ingredients such as xanthan gum, glycerol, agar agar, and chitosan. After many trials, I developed two successful recipes. The first was a thermoplastic starch composed of water, shell powder, glycerol, starch, and vinegar. This mixture created a moldable, clay-like material that could easily be formed into shapes and adjusted or cleaned with water. The second recipe was a self-reinforced concrete made from alginate, chitosan, water, shell powder, collagen, and gelatin, activated with a calcium chloride spray. This material was also water-manipulable, making it ideal for 3D printing or, in my case, piping from a bag.Given the final properties of these materials and my background in architecture, I decided to create a ceramic brick at an architectural scale. Using the second recipe, I was particularly interested in exploring the possibilities of “3D printing” and the forms and patterns it could produce. <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/de52c4b62376f5571685ae6a9660ab974fc1f194e8bd1787fb42a7aa5b691232/IMG_1372.jpg" data-mid="246683338" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/de52c4b62376f5571685ae6a9660ab974fc1f194e8bd1787fb42a7aa5b691232/IMG_1372.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/12fca6d084042efb85c4a1c1b805fa7491ba8239bd76454af26dcdeb575b7c3b/IMG_1293.jpg" data-mid="246683329" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/12fca6d084042efb85c4a1c1b805fa7491ba8239bd76454af26dcdeb575b7c3b/IMG_1293.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/86d6e41aa11da60bed8d27628f76cab8ca06b5d39ab1da1134cc19d66e406115/IMG_1374.jpg" data-mid="246683339" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/86d6e41aa11da60bed8d27628f76cab8ca06b5d39ab1da1134cc19d66e406115/IMG_1374.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/acd87074580344f0559c1bf8de6ab318950044b8d8b551c8ca61a26bb2c244f4/IMG_1328.jpg" data-mid="246683331" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/acd87074580344f0559c1bf8de6ab318950044b8d8b551c8ca61a26bb2c244f4/IMG_1328.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1242" width_o="1920" height_o="1242" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/69821c858a8cd802451bd132ad4641f84a29a068c4511ccc7874dfe680962097/final-biodesign-ingredient-list.jpg" data-mid="246683322" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/69821c858a8cd802451bd132ad4641f84a29a068c4511ccc7874dfe680962097/final-biodesign-ingredient-list.jpg" /> With Recipe #1 (thermoplastic starch), I created brick-like forms featuring different negative interior shapes to explore the material’s strength, flexibility, and ability to form hollow structures. These bricks measured approximately 4 inches by 4 inches with a thickness of 2 inches, resulting in solid yet easily moldable component. With Recipe #2 (self-reinforced concrete), I explored 3D printing techniques by piping lines, squiggles, and circles in layered formations. Eventually, I returned to the biobrick concept, using the piping method to form square shapes while highlighting the layered nature of the “printed” material. In the final step, I sprayed the structure with a calcium chloride solution, commonly used to de-ice roads, which acted as the setting agent. This spray reacted with the chitosan, helping to solidify each layer as additional material was applied. This process made it possible to build multiple layers without the structure collapsing under its own height, which the result was a strong, solid block that dried successfully. My hope for this project is to eventually replace concrete as a building material and transform shell waste into a valuable resource. While this goal may be ambitious, I believe the material has strong potential at smaller scales such as interior walls and surfaces, furniture components, objects requiring frequent replacement, or stationary items like lamps or vases. I am also aware that this biomaterial is designed to degrade over time. With this in mind, it could be used to create biodegradable plant pots that slowly break down with water exposure, releasing seeds and nutrients to support plant growth. The resilience and versatility of shells offer many possibilities, both biodegradable and permanent, making this an exciting way to transform waste into something purposeful and meaningful. <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ba5bdc6996aaff8c49866f032c2d219af8e48d03d0979c9ad02fc2d4095afc6f/IMG_1326.jpg" data-mid="246683330" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ba5bdc6996aaff8c49866f032c2d219af8e48d03d0979c9ad02fc2d4095afc6f/IMG_1326.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4c962f27b4edf3a16632eaddf1369a39a83ba80506cd82fb7a2915b7a712db1e/IMG_1344.jpg" data-mid="246683332" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4c962f27b4edf3a16632eaddf1369a39a83ba80506cd82fb7a2915b7a712db1e/IMG_1344.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6f008a8c3e07a094bd8fcae41ee60884d6bb0e871d8c0de4a8d798d9da553e5d/IMG_1345.jpg" data-mid="246683333" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6f008a8c3e07a094bd8fcae41ee60884d6bb0e871d8c0de4a8d798d9da553e5d/IMG_1345.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bb609549effcc48ba215792ed3e1bdaaed2c69ccdd00000c85ae7981172220ac/IMG_1368.jpg" data-mid="246683337" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bb609549effcc48ba215792ed3e1bdaaed2c69ccdd00000c85ae7981172220ac/IMG_1368.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1b2e47b04cd305bac7a213f2be2fd757e04f991f09e8c9b50c8a89afe210731e/IMG_1365.jpg" data-mid="246683336" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1b2e47b04cd305bac7a213f2be2fd757e04f991f09e8c9b50c8a89afe210731e/IMG_1365.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/f7a401027e0016f2bd72fa08967eee1ebc9a667710753004156b29c2bb9956b8/IMG_1360.jpg" data-mid="246683335" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/f7a401027e0016f2bd72fa08967eee1ebc9a667710753004156b29c2bb9956b8/IMG_1360.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1920" width_o="1920" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a2d91dcb387ece9716488bc257de00bd57a174f9fe8a1d317ee966440592ef8a/IMG_1357.jpg" data-mid="246683334" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a2d91dcb387ece9716488bc257de00bd57a174f9fe8a1d317ee966440592ef8a/IMG_1357.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6293d687c80a32e88a9eff3006e0cd0aa1bf3631caee22b59cdcb80a5ab4a0dc/IMG_1288.jpg" data-mid="246683328" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6293d687c80a32e88a9eff3006e0cd0aa1bf3631caee22b59cdcb80a5ab4a0dc/IMG_1288.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/BioLabel Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:14:45 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/BioLabel BioLabel <img width="1920" height="1510" width_o="1920" height_o="1510" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b0fe02a87a590a29149c168f54eefe15bce04a392c99061a4bc6ff15f6c30b15/a.jpg" data-mid="246681393" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b0fe02a87a590a29149c168f54eefe15bce04a392c99061a4bc6ff15f6c30b15/a.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1510" width_o="1920" height_o="1510" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/186ccf164e45b2beb33625796db9579af03475336e1e4271c5553f682136d9b1/IMG_8164.jpg" data-mid="246681716" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/186ccf164e45b2beb33625796db9579af03475336e1e4271c5553f682136d9b1/IMG_8164.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Anika Gupta &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon The original idea was to develop a silicon alternative that could form a flexible chainmail, one that would stretch under normal use but stiffen when pressure was applied. My first iteration of the recipe was made as a sheet material. Once the ingredient combination showed the qualities I was aiming for, I moved on to creating strings by extruding the mixture through a syringe into a calcium chloride bath. While the strings looked promising at first, they eventually flattened and hardened over time. Sheets placed in the calcium chloride bath reacted the same way. Another attempt involved drying the original sheet in a dehydrator. Although the result was flexible, it lost all of its initial transparency because the tapioca starch settled and pooled at the bottom. This pointed toward a need to adjust the ratio specifically, to increase the glycerol and reduce the tapioca starch. I produced a new batch and dried samples both in air and in the dehydrator. The dehydrated samples behaved similarly to previous ones, but the air-dried samples developed a tacky side that adhered easily to a range of materials. That unexpected property became the foundation for what eventually evolved into Bio Label. <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c6bc550b3ceea5e813a6b9f0a3f89481305600484da2f98a94e7a8bbac507a16/bio-material-finalcritsetup.jpg" data-mid="246681396" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c6bc550b3ceea5e813a6b9f0a3f89481305600484da2f98a94e7a8bbac507a16/bio-material-finalcritsetup.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1080" width_o="1080" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/287d7c624397253c86fc8102063d421f5ce057171b88e838114a7be443c0bb5f/bio-material-finalcri-setup.jpg" data-mid="246681395" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/287d7c624397253c86fc8102063d421f5ce057171b88e838114a7be443c0bb5f/bio-material-finalcri-setup.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/856638232bff72e739ee85c6dadd4dcab9d1c565195ed5d4911d42dac97a5af0/bio-material-text-final.jpg" data-mid="246681403" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/856638232bff72e739ee85c6dadd4dcab9d1c565195ed5d4911d42dac97a5af0/bio-material-text-final.jpg" /> Bio Label is a pressure-based, reusable adhesive surface that can be applied to glass, plastic, metal, wood, and more. Its unique sticking ability positions it as a sustainable alternative to the petroleum-based vinyls commonly used in marketing and signage.Bio Label dissolves completely in water, meaning it can be disposed of in a sink without leaving harmful residue. Its ingredients, sodium alginate, glycerol, tapioca starch, and natural pigments such as turmeric, spirulina, and ochre rouge are all safe for the water system. <img width="1920" height="3022" width_o="1920" height_o="3022" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/eb16dc0ea8b4df9af69dc943d48df2c62dbdf321c94ac77704313de44b636b75/bio-material-poster1.jpg" data-mid="246681401" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/eb16dc0ea8b4df9af69dc943d48df2c62dbdf321c94ac77704313de44b636b75/bio-material-poster1.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="3022" width_o="1920" height_o="3022" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/257de290a1d0430fdbb5964d8630cf3d5a9283b504ad4bbfe13163648e88ca97/bio-material-poster-2.jpg" data-mid="246681397" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/257de290a1d0430fdbb5964d8630cf3d5a9283b504ad4bbfe13163648e88ca97/bio-material-poster-2.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="3022" width_o="1920" height_o="3022" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bc87ecbb5bd408ad51ff0a51306ecd2534ae9dfbd35445359f63b7fb91d9ac95/bio-material-poster-5.jpg" data-mid="246681399" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bc87ecbb5bd408ad51ff0a51306ecd2534ae9dfbd35445359f63b7fb91d9ac95/bio-material-poster-5.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="3022" width_o="1920" height_o="3022" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9542304035051d9c2bfe428ca59211f24b568fd8f93123e5a12539aa5764ac46/bio-material-poster-6.jpg" data-mid="246681400" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9542304035051d9c2bfe428ca59211f24b568fd8f93123e5a12539aa5764ac46/bio-material-poster-6.jpg" /> Storefronts can use Bio Label in place of traditional vinyls for temporary installations during sales or festivals. The material is easy to cut and shape, making it highly customizable, and it holds ink well enough for printing more complex graphics. Because it doesn’t rely on permanent adhesives, it peels off cleanly without residue, making it simple to reposition or replace.Bio Label can also serve as a dissolvable label for glass containers used by small businesses with local shipping ranges. When washed, either by hand or in a dishwasher, the label dissolves completely, allowing the containers to be reused with minimal effort. Material protocols are below ... <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7a66afe1755f094e585382498c8dad81e2b9a5ed898a46efd7c484490e4713ac/Recipe-1.jpg" data-mid="246681613" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7a66afe1755f094e585382498c8dad81e2b9a5ed898a46efd7c484490e4713ac/Recipe-1.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5f7fb1cefd0ac7cc7193986750d77704f6bbc0b53157d4327370f35951af644f/Recipe-2.jpg" data-mid="246681627" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5f7fb1cefd0ac7cc7193986750d77704f6bbc0b53157d4327370f35951af644f/Recipe-2.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/6cf9b9d35193eb7a3daea8568ad4c3f66d2a27ee83e65d8d5c76a8494fddb62f/Recipe-2.1.jpg" data-mid="246681614" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/6cf9b9d35193eb7a3daea8568ad4c3f66d2a27ee83e65d8d5c76a8494fddb62f/Recipe-2.1.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4614b4205bc362005a6d997fb86ba2e12541811094cc22e940b1fc5a5e7d8a97/Recipe-2.2.jpg" data-mid="246681615" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4614b4205bc362005a6d997fb86ba2e12541811094cc22e940b1fc5a5e7d8a97/Recipe-2.2.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/83bcba0fe4ca125d59ab2a5a338ab6118b9b44f615b30e0ce6bc749b75dac3b2/Recipe-2.3.jpg" data-mid="246681616" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/83bcba0fe4ca125d59ab2a5a338ab6118b9b44f615b30e0ce6bc749b75dac3b2/Recipe-2.3.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ed461c11bff726926d806266d6d03e70f703d3c163e03cb22e67ce5163ff4b8c/Recipe-2.4.jpg" data-mid="246681617" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ed461c11bff726926d806266d6d03e70f703d3c163e03cb22e67ce5163ff4b8c/Recipe-2.4.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b12c482ab3b6ee6bbebbfa4ce067c95830d2ee6c1da5b9478b05ee37e63a5761/Recipe-2.5.jpg" data-mid="246681618" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b12c482ab3b6ee6bbebbfa4ce067c95830d2ee6c1da5b9478b05ee37e63a5761/Recipe-2.5.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fb05a24979bfc6913645eedce0e6419d39a2dfcb9b1a31a0f7628344929c0f66/Recipe-2.6.jpg" data-mid="246681619" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/fb05a24979bfc6913645eedce0e6419d39a2dfcb9b1a31a0f7628344929c0f66/Recipe-2.6.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/50b82b4660666b16158c32ae16ee85db723d348aa657ee2f09ce4e8d8ac4716a/Recipe-2.7.jpg" data-mid="246681620" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/50b82b4660666b16158c32ae16ee85db723d348aa657ee2f09ce4e8d8ac4716a/Recipe-2.7.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/abc5c09522144afa723179a8562909d800f3ca90469530a6622857fa58d13616/Recipe-2.8.jpg" data-mid="246681623" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/abc5c09522144afa723179a8562909d800f3ca90469530a6622857fa58d13616/Recipe-2.8.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4d00c3e0a1b9331a9b39d2bba467e149d08a38da149410263795d5cfb97dd642/Recipe-2.9---Final.jpg" data-mid="246681624" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4d00c3e0a1b9331a9b39d2bba467e149d08a38da149410263795d5cfb97dd642/Recipe-2.9---Final.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c9eabf4a38f15e849bcb9a23d6093b0720f7074a28947402c22fad2901d1cb0d/Recipe-2.10---Final.jpg" data-mid="246681625" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c9eabf4a38f15e849bcb9a23d6093b0720f7074a28947402c22fad2901d1cb0d/Recipe-2.10---Final.jpg" /> <img width="1080" height="1398" width_o="1080" height_o="1398" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a14e357b640dc0324dba4cd320ca9d9182490dfebc8ebc7527174de5121edab4/Recipe-2.11---Final.jpg" data-mid="246681626" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a14e357b640dc0324dba4cd320ca9d9182490dfebc8ebc7527174de5121edab4/Recipe-2.11---Final.jpg" /> https://biodesign.risd.edu/Cycle Fri, 14 Mar 2025 17:04:24 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/Cycle Cycle <img width="1440" height="1920" width_o="1440" height_o="1920" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/70402b05b4838082978d450424d372cc8401497c8615e08cf7650efd368f3666/Zabriskie1.jpg" data-mid="228255910" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/70402b05b4838082978d450424d372cc8401497c8615e08cf7650efd368f3666/Zabriskie1.jpg" /> <img width="928" height="1232" width_o="928" height_o="1232" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ee1203e412a8705f71e32aee3dcfbac4914b283fa2efa259cf62d6aaa6ac8f77/Zabriskie2.jpg" data-mid="228255911" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/928/i/ee1203e412a8705f71e32aee3dcfbac4914b283fa2efa259cf62d6aaa6ac8f77/Zabriskie2.jpg" /> <img width="928" height="1232" width_o="928" height_o="1232" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fc9cf3aa678b53d054db24e8a4eba5b7c38453eec819fb9d81a8696fd53dca3e/Zabriskie3.jpg" data-mid="228255912" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/928/i/fc9cf3aa678b53d054db24e8a4eba5b7c38453eec819fb9d81a8696fd53dca3e/Zabriskie3.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Kyan Zabriskie &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon Cycle is a biodegradable laundry pouch designed to capture and break down microplastics, offering a user-friendly and zero-waste solution that integrates seamlessly into environmental systems. Microplastics, often too small to detect or recycle, are everywhere — in soil, waterways, and even within human bodies. 35% of microplastics in our environment come from washing clothes, and approximately 700,000 plastic fibers are released per wash. Cycle tackles this issue at the root, reimagining the laundry cycle to harmonize with the life cycle.Inspired by the hagfish, a marine species that secretes tough, elastic threads of protein fibers and mucin when threatened, Cycle uses lab-synthesized hagfish fibers to create a lightweight, durable, and biodegradable textile. These fibers are strong, yet 100 times thinner than human hair, making them an ideal base for capturing microplastics. Combined with plastic-degrading enzymes like PETase, MPETase, and Nylonase, the textile traps and breaks down microplastics, offering a complete zero-waste and renewable solution. Cycle is simple to use — just toss it into the wash basin like other laundry products — but without harmful chemicals. Its short lifespan is intentional, allowing it to biodegrade fully in a backyard compost setting, reinforcing its circular design.While challenges like affordability, scalability, enzyme stability, and durability in harsh washing conditions remain, future iterations will refine these aspects while expanding its scope to tackle a wider range of plastics. Cycle’s innovative materials and design, aim to redefine sustainability by transforming everyday habits into regenerative solutions. https://biodesign.risd.edu/The-Living-Wire Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:25:09 +0000 RISD Biodesign https://biodesign.risd.edu/The-Living-Wire The Living Wire <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1856ea1f48e392f63bd129bffbacd8f7ff650d3e63d3db393f0e44b52c704106/Neyman_Page_1.jpg" data-mid="228254857" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1856ea1f48e392f63bd129bffbacd8f7ff650d3e63d3db393f0e44b52c704106/Neyman_Page_1.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/093ec01983cf113d4452d970f0e66c8566915ba5a3f05eb866d2a856c6932a45/Neyman_Page_2.jpg" data-mid="228254858" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/093ec01983cf113d4452d970f0e66c8566915ba5a3f05eb866d2a856c6932a45/Neyman_Page_2.jpg" /> <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/ca63f399913371733e0ec094c689228efcbbc45799fe8af8f75bde5442e0cd81/Neyman_Page_3.jpg" data-mid="228254859" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/ca63f399913371733e0ec094c689228efcbbc45799fe8af8f75bde5442e0cd81/Neyman_Page_3.jpg" /> ︎ Creator: Victoria Neyman &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ︎ Supervisor: Peter Yeadon In a world where e-waste accumulates by the minute in our oceans, rivers, and whatever other natural environment we can think of, the option to collaborate with earth’s longest existing organisms is opened up to us. Imagine a wire – a household wire – that lives, functions, and gracefully decomposes after its use, leaving little trace behind. The Living Wire offers a speculative concept that redefines sustainability in electronic design, by integrating bioengineered bacteria into the core structure of a household wire. This collaboration between manmade technology and nature’s bacterial organisms allows for households to be introduced to, and involved with, the field of biodesign on an elementary level, while being more sustainable and earth friendly as well. The Living Wire features a dual-layer design: a conductive core paired with a bacteria-infused textile insulation layer. These specialized bacteria are engineered to remain dormant during the wire's functional lifespan. Upon disposal, environmental triggers such as moisture or specific pH conditions activate the bacteria, prompting them to break down the insulation layer into harmless, biodegradable byproducts. Complementing this design, recycled metals like copper are used for the conductive core, ensuring a circular and sustainable material lifecycle. Inspired by the electrical conductivity of slime molds and advances in microbial engineering, The Living Wire introduces the possibility of "living electronics" that decay rather than persist as pollutants. By hosting life within its structure, this wire minimizes e-waste and sets a precedent for biodesign in electronic systems.