The new library materials for April 2023
Innovative biomaterials made form waste
We have been very busy this month as we’ve completely redesigned the library, I’m very excited and would love your feedback.
In terms of new materials, we have added some really innovative materials to the library this month and we have a little coconut-based theme too:.
Malai – Bioleather made from waste coconut water
Malai is a circular material made from waste coconut water obtained after the removal of the white flesh of a mature coconut. It is made from entirely organic and sustainable bacterial cellulose, grown on agricultural waste sourced from the coconut industry in Southern India.
Cocoboard – Bio-based panel made from waste coconut husk
Cocoboard is a medium-density, 100% bio-based panel made from waste coconut husks.
The material is highly resistant to moisture and wood-decaying insects. It is compatible with woodworking tools and equipment and can also be coated or dyed with lacquer, veneer, etc. It also absorbs 30% less coating.
Sway – Bio-plastic made from seaweed
Sway is a Bay Area-based startup that creates flexible thin film packaging from seaweed. This innovative Circular Material is a home and industrial compostable replacement for single-use packaging. The material utilises regenerative design to replenish the social & ecological systems harmed by petroleum plastics.
Hempwood – Timber and flooring alternative made from hemp
HempWood is a circular material made from eco-friendly hemp. The material is used as a premier substitute for wood, especially lumber.
The material is carbon-negative as hemp removes and sequesters 2 tons of carbon per acre. The water used for its production is derived from hydroelectric power. The waste formed in this process is also used as a heat source.
We’re also very excited to announce that we have started a newsletter. So if you would like to receive new material updates straight into your inbox, then please feel welcome to subscribe.
Subscribe here
About the Library
The goal of the library is to help promote all the amazing circular materials currently being developed along with providing a valuable tool to encourage more circular design.
Materials in the library fall under 2 categories, The Bio-cycle and the Tech-cycle. We include materials from a wide range of sources and applications, and key features include materials that are derived from waste streams, natural materials, recyclable, biodegradable or compostable, carbon neutral, bio-materials along with materials manufactured within circular production processes.
And, we’re also always on the lookout for new additions to the library, so if you’re working on, or know of any materials, we would love to hear about them.
