Recycled coffee-based polymer composite Nearly half the biomass of coffee cherries, which are processed to make coffee beans, is discarded as waste. Although various methods
Cellular pneumatic membrane PneuSystems is a modular, air-supported surface designed to function as a lightweight, adaptable architectural skin. Developed by research and design firm RVTR,
Liquid film with switchable properties Dynamic natural processes are inspiring a new generation of adaptive material technologies. The tears that coat human eyes, for example,
Light-emitting biopolymer Bioplastics offer a broad range of characteristics suitable for design and architectural applications. Architect Peter Yeadon experiments with various configurations of bioplastics and
CO2 infusion-based plastic coating CO2 has a negative reputation for its significant contribution to global warming. However, CO2 also exhibits some positive features that may
Cellulose-based polymer One of the first plastics was made from cellulose. In 1855 scientist Alexander Parkes created the first thermoplastic out of nitrocellulose and camphor.
Chitin-based biodegradable polymer Scientists at Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering have developed a new biopolymer that mimics the toughness, durability, and flexibility
Fractal-based environmental screen Mashrabiya is an Arabic term for a type of bay window with carved wooden latticework. A traditional element of Arabic architecture, the
Variable vacuum-formed plastic Although vacuum-forming molds are typically costly, the parts they produce are relatively inexpensive due to the economy of mass production. Vacuum-formed thermoplastics
Hybrid plastic and wood furniture Landscapes Within is a collection of furniture that contains visible inclusions of natural materials, combining the traditional craft of basketry
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