The farm table

\ďż˝ The farm table

a desktop aquaponics system of aztec origins

SUST 708: Sustainable Materials Stephen Langford Xiaowei Liu

Contents: 01

Problem Statement

02

Opportunity Statement

03

Materials Research

04

Product Concept

05

Material Selection

06

Life-Cycle Assessment

07

Review of Packaging Materials

Problem Statement: Since the first Agricultural Revolution that occured around 10,000 B.C., human societies have continued to become more and more disassociated with the agricultural processes on which we depend for our food. As villages, towns, and cities continued to grow, the source of production for these resources were pushed further and further away from the growing populations. Combined with the developments in both mechanization and chemical fertilizers in the last few hundred years, the processes themselves have drifted further away from natural practices, reaping irrevocable damage on the global ecosystem.

Opportunity Statement: To educate users about how easy, rewarding, and healthy it can be to grow their own food by mimicking natural, organic nutrient cycling processes in the convenience of their own home or office

Materials Research

In this section, we explore a range of different kinds of materials that have been making advances in the search for more sustainable alternatives to traditional manufacturing practices and resource allocation. What’s more, these advances and innovations are not just being made in scientific communities, but they are also being made directly by designers themselves, both through innovation of existing practices and through the recognition of the potential of materials that have not been utilized in the past. These materials include natural fiber composites and biopolymers, plant based bioplastics, various natural leathers and rubber materials, fungi based packaging materials, and bricks made of repurposed newspapers, among many others.

For each material, we have provided a brief description, the source of the material, its physical properties and details regarding its sustainability, and its current applications as a physical material.

Fibers

Biosteel Silk Polymer Originally produced by Nexia Biotechnologies through the extraction of a silk-like protein from the milk of transgenic goats, which was then purified, dried, dissolved using solvents, and then transformed into microfibers using wet-spinning fiber production techniques, Biosteel is a soft, smooth, durable and lightweight material with a high elasticity and a silky texture. After having gone bankrupt, however, AMsilk now produces the biofabric by fermenting a genetically-modified bacteria, creating a powder substrate, which is then spun into biosteel yarn.

This material offers a low carbon footprint while also being anti-allergen and skin-friendly with both odor control and moisture management properties, as well as 100% biodegradable once exposed to a certain enzyme.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

While once produced from the extraction of transgenic goat milk, Biosteel is now produced through the fermentation of transgenic bacteria.

Silk-like texture; Soft; Smooth; Lightweight; Durable; Exceptional strength and elasticity; Anti-allergen; Moisture and odor control

Sustainability:

Uses:

Lightweight; Durable; Biocompatible; 100% biodegradble; Low carbon footprint

Textiles; Implants; Artificial ligaments and tendons; personal care products

Coconut Fibers Coconut fibre, also known as coconut coir, is a natural fibre extracted from the husk of a coconut and is used in products ranging from industrial manufacturing to agriculture.

It is a very durable fiber with good ventilation and sound insulation properties, and is also compostable. While it’s fibers are relatively stiff, they also have strong water absorption and retention properties, which result in swelling when exposed to water.

Material Source: Coconuts - India and Sri Lanka are largest producers and exporters of coconuts

Sustainability: Renewable raw resource; Coconut trees are highly productive, producing 50-100 coconuts per year

Physical Properties: Compostable; Ventilates well due to its open structure; Good sound insulation; Strong and durable; relatively stiff and good in tension; Strong water absorption and retention

Uses: Shoe soles; Cushioning for upholstery; Packaging; Rope; Scouring pads; Processed for food and oil; Used as a natural-fiber reinforce for concrete; Insulation; Doormats; Brushes; Agricultural growth medium

Tree Bark Cloth An alternative to traditional woven textiles, tree bark cloth offers a crunchy texture that falls somewhere between that of paper, leather, and linen. The bark is first cut from the tree, which will naturally regrow each year, and is then softened by boiling before it is beaten to stretch out and smooth the surface. The material, which can be sourced from a number of different types of trees, is both tear and water resistant, and in the case of BarkTex, is treated in order to be UV resistant, fire resistant, and machine washable, as well as modified to comply with various specific demands regarding technical applications and even as a laminate material . It is also claimed to be 100% organic, manufactured without the use of chemicals or agents, but can only be sourced under the right conditions of rain, sun, and timing.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Typically Mutaba and fig trees, both of which naturally regrow their bark each year.

Each piece completely unique; Abrasian and water-resistant; Tear-resistant; Can be fire-resistant, UV resistant, and machine washable when treated properly;

Sustainability:

Uses:

100% organic and sourced from renewable raw materials

Bags; Shoes; Hats; Blinds and wall coverings for interior design; Furniture and lighting; Trim and seating in car interior; Fascia on consumer electronic products

Horse Hair Horsehair, a long coarse hair grown on the manes and tails of horses, can be used for a variety of purposes, including upholstery, brushes, bows of musical insutruments, such as violins, and even as a hard-wearing fabric called haircloth. It was also once used as a plaster material, however this application is typically only seen in older buildings. The material can be either stiff or fine and flexible, but the texture varies depending on breed, managment of the horse, diet, and climate. Horsehair is often combined with polymers that act as fillers, thus reducing the amount of virgin material used. However, these fibrous materials generally have a limited capacity to be converted into three-dimensional form. As a protein fiber, it absorbs water slowly and can be dyed and colored easily. The resulting fabrics are often sought after for their lustre, durability, and care properties.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Horse manes and tails

Rapid renewable product, and one that benefits from being harvested often.

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Heat retention; Compostable; Good ventilation; Good sound insulation; Shock, vibration, and water absorbing; resilient to deterioration; Anti-static; Antimicrobial

Most commonly used for paint brushes; Fabrics and upholstery and soles for shos; Alternative to synthetic packaging materials; Bows of musical instruments; Plaster

Plant Cellulose Plant cellulose has such a vast array of potential applications and is so widely available that it has become one of nature’s most exploited natural ingredients. It has been used to make plastics for ping-pong balls, plastic sunglasses, screwdriver handles, early film stock, fibers, textiles, and even paper. These applications are due in part of its easy ability to react with other chemicals such as acetic and nitric acids, which form acetates, such as cellulose acetate and nitrates, when dissolved. Unfortunately, however, the manufacturing process can be very energy-intensive and most manufacturers use harmful chemicals in the production process.

One of the manufacturers of this material, Zeo IP Pty, has developed Zeoform, a new material is derived from water and hemp cellulose, and is claimed to be non-toxic, biodegradable, and could be used to replace many forms of hard plastics, as well as synthetic and chemical composites.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Cellulose is found in the cell wall of all green plants and many forms of algae

High stiffness; Odorless; Hydrophilic; Water Insoluable; Sustainability: Widely available renewable resource; Recyclable; Can be energy-intensive and use harmful chemicals in producton process Uses: Depending on how it is treated, cellulose can be used to make paper, film, explosives, and plastics, including the grips of writing utensils, umbrella handles, spectacle frames, cigarette filters, diving goggles, vehicle steering wheel covers, lampshades, tooth brush handles, toys and tool handles.

Bacterial Cellulose Rather than cellulose materials produced from plants, bacterial cellulose is produced through a symbiotic mix of bacteria and yeast, such as the kumbucha tea leaves used by the company BioCouture. As the bacteria digest sugar, they spin a layer of pure cellulose, the thickness of which depends on the length of time it is left to process. It is both completely organic and nontoxic, can be be grown with waste, produces no waste, and with its process, it can be grown and formed simultaneously. The resulting material, similar to a vegetable leather, has a higher purity than traditional cellulose, a greater tensile strength and moldability, and increased water holding ability.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Bacteria fermented in yeast; In the case of BioCouture, bacteria is mixed with kumbucha tea leaves.

Non-toxic; Compostable; Low-energy requirements; Can be grown from waste; Produces no waste

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Non-toxic; Compostable; Controlled thickness; Can be colored; Not waterproof; Antimicrobial; High purity; High tensile strength; Moldability; Good water-holding ability

Areas being explored in textiles, cosmetics, food products, medical applications

Silk Silk, the strongest natural fiber on the planet, has been cultivated for more than 5,000 years for its applications in textiles, but it has recently been gaining traction in other applications. Silk can be produced by many different kinds of insects, mostly by larvae undergoing metamorphisis, but some insects can produce silk throughout their entire lives. In the case of textiles however, generally only the silk produced by the mulberry silkworm will be used in manufacturing. A single silk cocoon can yield enough silk fibre to produce up to 1,000 meters of thread. It has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, is biocompatible and biodegradable, and has superb optical qualities due to its triangular and prismatic structure. As light is able to refract at different angles, it gives a shimmering appearance and produces the appearance of multiple colors. It has a smooth and soft texture, but has poor elasticity and is a poor conductor of electricity.

Material Source: Most commonly Mulberry Silkworm, but can also be produced by many other insects

Physical Properties: High strength-to-weight ratio and light refraction; Biodegradable; Biocompatible; Low thermal and electrical conductivity; Poor elasticity; Edible

Uses:

Sustainability:

Textiles; Applications for artifitial arteries and veins, implantable fibre optics, and compostable products and sustainable plastics are being explored

Biodegradable; Biocompatible; Lightweight; Renewable raw material with an extremely high yield rate; Process of boiling cocoon with silkworm still inside may be questionable to some

Plant

Acrylic Glass Derived from Sugar Processes are currently being developed to produce Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), or ‘Acrylic’, a classic artificial materials with properties akin to glass, with natural raw materials such as sugar, alcohol, and fatty acids. Scientists have discovered an enzyme in a bacterial strain that can now as a biotechnological production of a precursor to Methyl Methacylate (MMA). The natural raw materials are fed to the bacteria resulting in a more environmentally friendly production process that requires less energy and reduces waste. PMMA, commonly referred to by its market name Plexiglas, is a highly versatile, petroleum based thermoplastic material that is both hard and stiff and offers excellent clarity. It is actually one of the clearest and is the most widely available clear materials.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Fermentation of sugar, alcohol, and fatty acids by a bacterial enzyme

Excellent clarity, good hardness, good stiffness, resistant to weathering, easy to color match, high print adhesion, recyclable

Sustainability:

Uses:

Based on natrual raw materials; Less energy consumption for production; Less waste;

Direct substitute for any traditional acrylic applications, including protective goggles, vehicle lights, aquariums, windows, etc.

Algae Based Materials & Algae Based Bioplastic Algae can be found in both warm and cold waters around the world in sizes ranging from microscopic to meter-long seaweed. While only 200 species are used industrially, there are over 80,000 known species which produce some 3.5 million tons worldwide. Algae not only has a number of different uses, but it is also rapidly renewable and fairly easy to cultivate. As a natural reinforcing fiber for composites, it is characterized by special transparent aesthetic, is flame retardant, and decomposes when mixed with a natural resin matrix.

Algae can also be used as an alternative energy source in biodiesel and hydrogen fuel cells, and potentional energy stories in the form of batteries with a high charging speed for rechargable batteries. In hydrogen fuel cells, which are considered an environmentally friendly energy source for operating electric motors, hydrogen reacts with oxygen to create water and then algae, with the help of the enzyme hydrogenase, seperates water into oxygen and hydrogen, the energy for which is aquired through photosynthesis.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Warm and cold waters worldwide

Rapid growth; Available worldwide; Aesthetic transparency; Flame-retardant; Mold resistant

Sustainability:

Uses:

Replaces conventional reinforcing fibers and can decompose when natural resin matrix is used; As a bioplastic, produces no pollutants and is both compostable and recyclable; Environmentally friendly energy production

Replacement for expanded polystyrene as bioplastic; Fibers are commonly used in building containers and wall panels for interior design; Biofuel; Hydrogen fuel cells; Batteries; Art

Artichoke Pulp Artichoke, a plant native to western and central Mediterranean regions and has been cultivated since ancient times, can be used to produce a pulp is 100% biodegradbable and can be used to produce a bioplastic material as well as biofuel. Artichoke plants are easy to care for and since they thrive in the meditarranean region that provide an alternative crop for Greek farmers. As a thistle based bioplastic, artichoke thistle has been mixed with cooking oil waste to form a tick, spreadable ecoplastic that increases durability as it dries and is also 100 biodegradable. It is characterized by earthy tones and a biorous appearance. It is also compostable.

Material Source: The artichoke thistle grows easily in the Mediterranean climate

Sustainability: 100% biodegradable; Can be used as alternative for biofuel

Physical Properties: 100% organic; Biodegradable; Compostable; Earthy tones; Fiborous appearance; Durable; Verstaile shaping

Uses: Furniture, packaging

Fungus Based Materials - Mycelium Fungal based materials are derived from natural fibers that can be used in both composites and as fiber reinforcment. They are able to grow organically and as they grow the fungi form a network of microscopically small threads that bind with various organic waste materials such as wood and soil. Rather than being manufactured, Mycelium, the threadlike cells that form on the roots of mushrooms, can serve as a replacement for conventional foam plastics, polystyrene. They can be grown and directly formed to the desired shape. After the growth process is complete, the material is baked in an oven in order to dehydrate it, requiring ten times less energy than the manufacturing of synthetic foam materials. The resulting material is lightweight, soft and has good acoustic, thermal, and shock insulating properties. It is also fire retardant. Biodegradation is triggered when the material is exposed to components of the soil food web and water.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Mycelium; Cellulose found rice and wheat husks

Akin to polystyrene; heat-insulating; shock-absorbent; fireretardant; lightweight; soft

Sustainability:

Uses:

Based on natural waste material; Energy-efficient manufacturing process; Rapidly renewable; Compostable; Biodegradable; Low water consumption; Carbon neutral

Packaging material; Interiors; Art

Cork and Cork Derive Products Renewable, natural, lightweight, and impermeable to water and gasses, Cork has offers a chewable, warm, and dense sponge-like texture. It has a variety of uses with its high strength-to-weight ratio and water resistance, and it is also biodegradable. It is also one of the few materials in the world that maintains its overall thickness as it stretches. Cork trees absorb up to five times more carbon dioxide than oter trees and are not havested until after the first twenty years of growth, after which removal simply stimulates steady regeneration of the bark, producing a new harvest every nine years, which typically amounts to the equivalent of 4,000 bottle stopers. Each cork tree will provide about 16 harvests over its 150 - 200 year lifespan. Cork can be machined, routed, lathe-worked and cut using typical woodworking techniques, as well as being formed in a process similar to compression molding. It can be turned into a sheet, woven as a textile, and even combined in composites.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Sustainability:

Cork tree bark

Interesting tactile quality; adjustable flexibility; noise and vibration-reducing; thermoplastic processing qualities; water- and gas-impermeable; rot-resistant; lightweight; chewable, warm, and dense sponge-like texture; Good strength-to-weight ratio

Cork tree absorbs up to five times more CO2 than other trees; Natural renewable raw material; biodegradable with crude oil-free matrix; Recyclable; Removal does not harm tree

Uses: Wine stoppers; Place mats; Dart boards; shoe liners; Anti-vibration pads; Sporting goods candles; floats. furniture; cork fabrics; fire barriers

Cotton Cotton, a soft, fluffy staple fiber, is a shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The fiber, which is almost entirely cellulose, is often spun into yarn or thread and used to make a soft, breathable textle. Since the invention of the cotton gin, cotton has become the most widely used natural fiber in clothing. However, not only has cotton’s genome has been extensively modified in recent years to reduce its heavy reliance on pesticides, develop a resistance to herbicides, and even remove a toxic gene to make it a potential food crop, improper cropping and irrgiation practices have also lead to desertification in some areas. Then, when cotton is loomed and prepped for cutting, it goes through several chemical treatments and baths, the dyes for which often contain heavy metals.

Organic cotton, on the other hand, is classified as being produced from unmodified plants and without the use of any synthetic agricultural chemicals, such as fertilizers and pesticides, encouraging farmers to use natural processes to protect crops from insects and diseases.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Shrub grown in tropical and subtropical regions

Covers 2.5% of the world’s cultivated land, yet uses 16% of the world’s insecticides (including herbicides and defoliants); Nonorganic production releases air-borne pollutants due to chemical production and processing; Decreases biodiversity and shifts equilibrium of ecosystem; Has lead to desertification in some areas due due to improper cropping and irrigation practices

Physical Properties: Soft; Strong; Flexible; breathable; Uses: Textiles; Fishing nets; Coffee filters; Medical gauze; Tents; Books; Paper; Explosives

Dandelion Based Rubber With such a high demand for rubber products comes a high demand for their primary ingrediaent, natural rubber. This puts strain on the rubber trees that produce this raw material and can lead to improper cultivation techniques and unsustainable practices, as well as high economic and environmental transportation costs when importing from Asia. However, it has recently been discovered that dandelions can serve as an excellent, and modest, alternative source for natural rubber. They are extremely resilient and are grown annually, rather waiting the typical seven to ten years prior to the first harvest of a rubber tree. Dandelions actually produce a large amount of natural rubber in their roots, which consist of around 10-15% natural rubber, but uses for the rest of the plant still need to be found.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Dandelion roots

Reduces dependency on imports from Asia; Grown annually; Extremely resilient; Applications for rest of plant yet to be found

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Extreme elasticity; High tensile strength; Low temperature flexibility

Range of products from mattresses and gloves to adhesive tape and tires

Kenaf Kenaf is a warm season annual fiber crop that has continued to diversify since its historical use as a cordage crop for the production of rope, twine, sackcloth, etc. It is now used in a number of various applications such as paper products, building materials, absorbants, and livestock feed, as well as used for blending with resins for plastic composites, as a drilling fluid loss preventative, and as a hydromulch for erosion control. Kenaf itself is closely related to cotton and okra and can be successfully produced in a large portion of the United States, and thrives in the southern states. It fully matures in 100 - 200 days and the fibers are similar to that of jute (burlap), meaning they are characterized by their llightweight, non-toxicity, biodegradability, and low density. The fibres can be found in both the core and the bark, and while the fibres from the bark are long and slender, the fibres from the core are thick and short. Products that utilize the fibres in a paper pulp will actually utilize both fibre strands, as the pulp is made from the whole stem, resulting in a pulp quality similar to that of a hardwood.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

A warm-climate annual crop; Can be cultivated in India, Bangladesh, United States of America, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa, Viet Nam, Thailand, parts of Africa, and a small extent in southeast Europe.

Lightweight; Non-toxic; Biodegradable; Low density; Excellent insullation against heat and noise; High moisture absorbtion of fibres and composites; Low processing temperature; Can produce very fine and strong yarns that are also fire-retardant

Sustainability:

Uses:

Biodegradable; Rapidly renewable; Local (can be grown in many places around the world); Extremely low carbon footprint in cultivation and processing; Low maintenance; Little water required and almost no pesticides or fertilizers; Absorbs high amount of CO2 from atmosphere while also producing 10 - 20x more fibre than other fiborous plants

Carpet backing and padding; Fiber mats; Roofing felt; Fire logs; Cardboard; Insulation; Soil-less potting mix; Composites; Oil-drilling fluid loss preventative; Erosion control; Hamburger wrappers; Fastfood containers; Wallpaper

Volcanic Rock Volcanic rock is formed from magma erupted from a volcano and is among the most common rock types found on Earth’s surface. It is estimated to cover 8% of Earth’s current land surface. It is sometimes referred to as floatstone, which contains volcanic rock, or basalt, which is the most common volcanic rock type. Volcanic rock is characterized by a fine grain, often blended with other minerals and crystals, and has a very porous structure. In basalt fiber-reinforced materials, basalt fibers are extracted from the stone and are 100% natural. While the specific properties depend on the exact composition of the balsalt, these materiasl are generally very light, have an extremely high tensile stranth and chemical resistance, and can be used in a wide range of temperatures. In addition to requiring far less energy in production, they also have 15% greater rigidity and 30% greater tensile strngth than traditional fiberglass materials. As the rocks porous structure makes it water absorbant, it also has good air permeability, is non-toxic, and producues no waste. It can also provide plants with key minerals such as prolific carbon, sodium, magnesium, calcium, etc., and when mixed with coconut fibres or mut, they make for a healthy and sustainable growing medium.

In the case of Rockpanel, the volcanic rock, in a manner similar to the natrual volcanic process, is melted and spun into a process similar to candy floss, which is then used to produce a recyclable wool-like mat.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Magma

Natural source; Lightweight construction material; Non-toxic; no waste during use; Less energy instensive compared to fiberglass; Recyclable

Physical Properties:

Uses: Lightweight replacement for metallic materials in aviation, automotive, and building industries; Architecture; Agriculture; Water conservation; Can be used to make tubes, containers, boats, and in the manufacturing of wind power generators; Fabrics; Fiber strands; Basalt mats; Filament yarn

Water absorbent; Fine grained; Blended composition; Vesicular texture; Lightweight; Extremely high tensile strength; Chemical resistant; Can withstand a variety of temperatures

Bamboo Bamboo is an extremely fast-growing perennial evergreen grass that is grown in tropical and subtropical climates and makes for an extremely lightwight building material. Some species can grow up to 40 meters with a stem circumference of up to half a meter, and in the right conditions, can grow up to a meter per day. It is 25% harder than oak while also being more durable than most hardwoods. It’s hollow interiors also makes it highly elastic and light, with a great bending strength and a tensile strength comparable to that of structural.

However, it must be treated in order to make it moisture, fungal, and insect resistant.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

A tropical and subtropical perennial evergreen grass grown in tropical and subtropical regions. However, some species have been found in colder climates.

Most bamboo is exported from southern and southeast Asia, but with its ability to be grown anywhere with the right climate, it can also be sourced from much closer locations.

Relatively inexpensive; Rapidly renewable and fast growing; Excellent strength-toweight ratio and tensile strength; Low energy processing; High elasticity; Lightweight; 25% harder than oak; More durable than hardwood; Low density; Susceptible to moisture, fungal, and insect damage

Sustainability: Rapidly renewable raw material; Lightweight; Biodegradable; Low cost; Low energy processing; Continues to grow after being harvested; Susceptible to moisure, insect, and fungal damage without treatment, which is often fossil-fuel based; Low transportation costs if sourced responsibly;

Uses: Musical instruments; Shelter; Architecture; Flooring; Scaffolding; Roofing; Medicine; Cellulose; Paper; Bridges; Baskets; Furniture; Bamboo plywood; Wind protection in farming; Fibres can be shredded and converted into fibres for textiles

Rattan Rattan, which often brings up thoughts of tropical climates and hand crafted outdoor furniture, is a vine like climbing plant characterized by slender, long, and flexible stems. There are over 600 species, with some reaching up to 200 meters. The vines themselves are derived from the palm of the fast growing Calamus Rotang plant. The stems are stripped of their skin and then used for weaving after being cured in the sun and, depending on thickness and species, possibly also processed through a number of other bethods before being formed into furniture. Rattan is tough, flexible, strong, lightweight, druable, and has a good resistance to splitting. Unforunately, some species have become endangered due to overfarming and are sometimes processed using toxic chemicals.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Vines of the plant Calamus Rotang; Most of the world’s rattan comes from Indonesia.

Strong and tough; Extremely flexible; Good resistance to splitting; Lightweight;

Sustainability:

Uses:

Rapidly renewable raw material; Over-cutting rattan slows or stops the generation process; Some species endangered due to overfarming, consequently effecting wildlife; Sometimes processed using toxic chemicals

Furniture; Baskets; Umbrella handles; Door mats; Structural applications for interior and exterior products (Rope, twine, rope bridges)

Hemp Due to its strength, abundance, and the fact that, as a plant, it is a pollution muncher, hemp has become a major area of development in the plant fiber industry. Through a process called ‘retting,’ the fibres are seperated from the stiff inner stick of the plant and soaked until soft before being removed from the hard core. Hemp is versatile in where it can be grown, is frost tolerant, requires only a moderate amount of water, no pesticides or insecticides, can be harvested only 120 days after planting, and is characterized by a good strength-to-weight ratio, good durability, high thermal conductivity, a coarse texture, and its long hollow fibres, making it a lightweight biological material. It also has a high resistance to bacteria, meaning it is antimicrobial, and is biodegradable.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Hemp can be grown in many regions around the world, including all 50 U.S. states. However, most hemp production takes place in China.

Versatile in relation to the agricultural land it can be grown on; Draws CO2 from the atmosphere; Biodegradable; Renewable raw materials; Can be harvested only 120 days after planting; Can drastically reduce the need for deforestation;

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Good strength-to-weight ratio; Durable; High thermal conductivity; Coarse texture; Relatively lightweight; Long hollow fibres; High resistance to bacteria; Antimicrobial

Coarse fabrics; Can be blended with other fibers, such as linen and cotton, for clothing; Fibre construction boards; Rope; Composite fibers; Plastic wood; Sail cloth; Paper; Biofuel

Wheat Straw Wheat is one of the largest taple food sources in the U.S. and is a universally grown crop. Wheat straw, an agricultural byproduct, refers to the dry stalks that remain from cereal crops after the grain and chaff have been harvested and is traditionally treated as waste. However, as it is still a fast growing and rapidly renewable material, some companies have begun to look to using wheat straw to produce beneficial, or at least environmentally neutral, alternatives to traditional panelling and building materials by also using non-toxic binders, some of which are agricultural based, as well. The resulting surface has a very fine structure and features a natural grain, but are not particularly attractive. That said, they are available in a wide range of sheet sizes and thickness, are lightweight and hard, easy to work and less wear on tools, moisture resistant, VOC (volatile organic compound)-free, have a high density, and are recyclable.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Dry stalks of cereal crops (wheat, barley, oats, rye, and corn) after grain and shaff have been removed

Agricultural byproduct; Rapidly renewable; VOC-free; Recyclable; Can be compostable

Uses: Physical Properties: Easy to work; Lightweight; Hard; Moisture resistant, VOC-free; Fine structured surface and natural grain; High density; Recyclable; Can be compostable

Interior paneling for schools, museums, hospitals, retirement homes, laboratories, libraries and other public buildings; Nonstructural interior applications - general woodworking, cabinets, wall and partition panelling, work surfaces and office furniture; Biofuel and bioplastics; Fiber composites; Animal feed; Basket weaving; BeddingBiomass to produce electricity; Agricultural mulch; Packaging; Paper; Rope; Shoes; Thatching; Woven hats

Bio-Plastic Based on Wheat Apart from its nutritional importance, which includes its protein, carbohydrates, Vitamin E, minerals, etc., wheat is being increasingly used for its industrial purposes, such as to make biofuel and bioplastics. While research is still being done to better understand wheat’s polymerization process, which is necessary to determine the best suitable combination of wheat proteins for the development of bioplastics, a variety of wheat gluten based bio-plastics have been investigated as a source for biodegradable polymers. In these plastics, the biofibers replace the need for synthetic polymers, resulting in a biodegradable plastic and film. Wheat is renewable, available in large quanitites, and a low-cost raw material. The gluten proteins form a soft and elastic solid material when plasticized with gylcerol, resulting in psudo-plastic properties. Wheat is annually renewable and posseses good oxygen barrier properties and thermostability when compared to other renewable materials such as starch, cellulose, oils, etc. It does, however, have low water vapor barrier properties. In some cases, sugar (cellulose) derived from wheat is fed to bacteria to ferment and produce a completely natural bioplastic.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Wheat gluten

Non-toxic; Bopdegradable; Good oxygen barrier; Thermostability; Low water vapor barrier; Flexible

Sustainability: Agriculture byproduct; Biodegradable; Annually renewable raw material; Uses: Plastic packaging and film

Carrot Fiber As the use of rapidly renewable sources of fibers are being increasingly explored as alternative methods of manufacturing carbon fiber, root vegetables, such as carrots, are being looked to for solutions. These fibres are utilized by mechanically breaking them down into a slurry of tiny particles, which are then etracted and formed into a variety of states that can be molded, applied, or mixed with resins such as epoxy, polyurethane, and polyester. Carrot fibers are also available in powder form, in sheets, and as a loose matting. They have a high strength-to-weight ratio, uses low temperatures in production, and are tough and stiff. Unfortunately, however, in the case of the product Curran, 20% fossil fuel based oil is still needed to compliment the 80% carrot fibre.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Root vegetables, specifically carrots

High strength-to-weight ratio; Tough; Good stiffness;

Sustainability:

Uses:

Agricultural byproduct; Low temperature production; Renewable raw material

Paints and coatings; Thickening additives; Sheets for vacuum molding; Laminates; Panelling; Paper

Sugarcane Sugar, the evaporated and crystallized extract from the stalk of the sugarcane plant, is an important source of biofuels, but it can also be used in such disposable products as golf tees, skeet targets, and votive candle holders, among others. When disposed of, the sugar decomposes as a simple biological nutrient. The stalks of the plant are crushed to extract the juice, which is then concentrated by boiling, then crystalized and clarified. Products can be formed through a method of compression molding. In addition, another material that can be utilized from sugarcane is its bagasse, the residual and woody fibre, which can be used for pulp, fibre composites, and paper products.

As a bioplastic, sugarcane ethanol has been used as an alternative to PET, PHB, and Polyethylene.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

The plant is grown on plantations on Cuba, Indonesia, South America, Hawaii and some southern states of the U.S.

Versatile; Short lifespan; Brittle;100% biodegradable.

Sustainability:

Uses:

Eliminates need for waste storage; Compostable; biodegradable; Rapidly renewable raw material; Highest biodiversion efficiency

Disposable products such as golf tees, skeet targets, votive candle holders, etc.

Coca-Cola is currently exploring the potential to create 100% bioplastic bottles with sugarcane

Orange Peel Orange peels, specifically the rind, pith, and seed waste, all agricultural byproducts of the fruit juice industry, are able to create a 100% natural material moldable and rigid. As pectin, a natural binder found in the rind, is what is used to give the material its shape, no additional resins or synthetic binders are needed. Processing and production require only a minimal amount of water and energy, and can be hard or flexible depending on the exact proportions of ingredients. It does also have a slight citrus fragrance when given a little rub.

Orange fiber, a new kind of fabric coming out of Sicily, Italy, is made entirely of orange peels and has a similar feel and aesthetic to that of silk. In addition, aside from its pleasant feel and appearance, the resulting yarn that is spun from the cellulose extracted from the peel holds its essential oils and vitamin C through several wash cycles, making the fabric serve as somewhat of a wearable body cream, and without making the material feel greasy.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Agricultural byproduct of oranges grown in tropical and subtropical climates

Industrial byproduct; 100% natural ingredients; Biodegradable; Compostable; Year-round supply could be problematic

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Versatile production; Citrus fragrance; Rigid; Can be hard or flexible; High strength; Good thermal conduction and sound absorption properties; High density; Odor neutralizing; Watertight for limited periods of time

Alternative to MDF in construction industry; Prototyping; Heels for footwear as replacement for polyurethane; Shoe insoles as natural odor neutralizer; Cosmetiic packaging; Plant pots; Egg cartons; Food trays; Silk-like fabric

As a fabric - Super lightweight; Soft and silky feeling; Opaque or iridescent according to production needs

Pineapple Leather Pineapple leather is a non-woven textile and natural leather alternative produced from pineapple leaves fibers, making it an agricultural byproduct that has a production process requiring no additional land, water, fertilizer, or pesticides. It is strong, flexible, and biodegradable and can be used for a wide variety of textile applications.

Material Source:

Uses:

Cellulose extracted from pineapple leaf fibers

Bags; Shoes; Clothing; Accessories; Etc.

Physical Properties: Strong; Flexible; Biodegradable; Compostable; Can be produced at different thicknesses and textures; Can be colored and dyed

Sustainability: Agriculture by-product; Up-scales waste product; Increases income for farmers; Biodegradable; Compostable; Plant based alternative to traditional leather;

Bioplastics Based on Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) TPS is a bioplastic formed by blending a hygroscopic starch with a water-insoluable and biodegradable polymer, such as polyvinyl alcohol or polyester. Flexibilisers and plasticizers are often added to assist in the processing of the starch, and then natural glycerin can be added during processing to increase flexibility. TPS, therefore, has a wide spectrum of applications and is the most commonly used bioplastic (making up between 50% - 80% of the bioplastics market). It can also be injection molded or extruded just like conventional plastics.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Mostly corn and potatoes

Ability to absorb liquids; Biodegradable; Flexible

Uses:

Sustainability:

Pharmaceuticals; bags; yogurt containers; cups; plant pots; cutlery; diaper foil; coated paper; cardboard; fibers; healthcare; packaging; paper coating

Based on renewable resources; If blended with biodegradable polyesters, the starch plastic becomes biodegradable; Some other blends, although not biodegradable, still have a lower carbon footprint than fossilfuel-based plastics used for the same applications

Polyactic Acid PLA, a form of bioplastic e.g., paper pulp and corn based PLA A stiff, transparent, and biodegradable plastic produced by fermenting dextrose extracted from potatoes, corn, and sugarcane. As it has similar characteristics to conventional fossil fuel based plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), it can be similarly shaped and formed through injection molding, thermoforming, or blowmolding.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Often produced by the fermentation of starches from various crops, such as potatoes, corn, or sugarcane, into lactic acid, followed by subsequent polymerization

Stiff; Transparent; Compostable; Low durability

Sustainability:

Uses:

No additional manufacturing costs - Can be processed in existing petroleum based plastics manufacturing facilities; Biodegradable; Releases 60% less GHG and uses 50% less non-renewable energy than traditional plastics; Still has high carbon footprint for being produced from renewable resource; Uses foodstock and land as raw material

Pharmaceuticals; bags; yogurt containers; cups; plant pots; cutlery; diaper foil; coated paper; cardboard; fibers; healthcare; packaging; paper coating

Bioplastics Based on Polyhydroxybutyerate Acid (PHB) PHB is a water-insoluable, non-transparent biopolymer with a high tensile strength and is resistant to UV light. As a thermoplast, PHB, too, can be processed using the same methods employed in fossil-fuel based plastics and is expected to replace traditional polypropylene plastics in several industries in the near future.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Derived from bacteria processing glucose or starch

Water insoluable; Opaque; High tensile strength; Resistant to UV light; Low oxygen diffusion; High fracture susceptibility Melts at temperatures above 130*; Biocompatible

Sustainability:

Uses:

Produced from renewable resources; Biodegradable without harmful residues

Adhesives - With biocompatibility, ideal for medical products; Hard rubber

Bioplastics Based on Vegetable Oils Vegetable oils can provide the raw materials needed for the production of bio-based plastics and the production of bio-based polyamides for technical purposes, resins for fiber compounds, or foams. The primary sources of these bio-materials include castor oil, rapeseed oil, and soya oil. As a thermoplastic, soft foam, or resin, vegetable oils offer an alternative to petroleum based polyamides and monomers with a more favorable carbon dioxide footprint.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Castor plant, soy beans, rapeseed, sunflowers

Alternative to petroleum based materials; Renewable raw materials

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Versatile; Durable; Reliable

Technical applications; Soft foams (mattresses); Polyester resins

Tomato Based Bioplastic A strong, lightweight composite material derived from tomato skin fibers and blended with polypropylene. The fibers are ground, dried, and then compressed into pellets perfect for making plastic. As the raw material is heated at very low temperatures to preserve the natural fibers, this process uses very little energy and serves as a replacement for talc. Current samples of this material are about 20% tomato and 80% plastic derived from other sources.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Tomato skins and seeds; Polypropylene

Strong; Lightweight; Orange Coloring

Sustainability:

Uses:

Agricultural Byproduct; Less energy intensive; Lightweight - Less gas used by cars; Questionable Recyclability

Ford is exploring using the material for vehicle wiring brackets and storage bins

Agave Based Bioplastic A byproduct of the tequila making process, and as such, readily available in excess, agave based bioplastics serve as a substitute for fiberglass and talc, decreasing both the amount of petroleum and energy needed to manufacture the material. It is durable, lightweight, and has good aesthetics, however, there is also a slight odor issue in that the material has a somewhat burnt coffee smell to it. The fibrous byproduct is currently either used for artisan crafts, compost for the farms, agave paper, or is burned, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Material Source:

Uses:

Agave Fibers

Vehicle interiors and exteriors (storage bins, fuse boxes, wiring harnesses)

Sustainability:

Physical Properties:

Agriculture byproduct; Reduces CO2 emissions; Generates additional revenue for farmers; 15% lighter than traditional materials; Less energy intensive; Decreases demand for petroleum; Low Cost

Lightweight; Durable; Good aesthetics; Burnt coffee smell

Castor Oil A durable and strong renewable polyamide derived from the viscous oil extracted from castor plant seeds. In addition to being easily processed using traditional thermoplastic techniques, castor oil can be enhanced with any number of fillers, such as glass and colorants, and can also be extruded into a tough fiber for textiles.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Uses:

Castor plant seeds

Can be used to produce biodiesel and less energy intensive in doing so;

Versatile production;

Physical Properties: Tough/durable; Impact resistant; Poor chemical resistance; High strength; Low friction

Environmentally hazardous to grow and manufacture, especially for crop workers; Can be used to produce ricin, a key ingredient in the production of biochemical weapons

As a renewable polyamide, its main application is in engineering and other related fields where enhanced mechanical properties are needed; Also used in countless other applications such as laxatives, chemical weapons (ricin), lubricants, cosmetics, and biodiesel

Soybean Based Plastic (Soy Polyol) Reliable alternative to polyurethane, with a lower carbon footprint that still exhibits a similar performance. In some cases, products are even enhanced with lighter weight, more strength, and better durability. Soy polyol offers multiple functionalities with applications ranging from flexible to case to rigid foams.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Soy bean

Similar properties to polyurethane; Versatile - Flexible; Rigid; Strong; Durable; Lightweight

Sustainability:

Uses:

Renewable raw material; Lower carbon footprint; Questionable sourcing

Carpet backing, spray foam insulation

Latex Contrary to popular belief, the term “latex� does not refer to natural rubber latex, but is used to describe any polymer in a water-based liquid or viscous state, such as the sap extracted from several rubber yielding plants, including the Hevea Brasiliensis tree, aka., the rubber tree. It is used as the raw material for many different products. Although most forms of latex can at least be considered to have excellent resilience, tensile strength, and contact adhesion, as well as being biodegradable, many of its other properties depend on the tree from which it is taken.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Sap extracted from a variety of plants

Excellent resilience and tensile strength; Excellent contact adhesion; Low chemical UV resilience; Low allergen material; Biodegradable;

Sustainability: Biodegradable; Rapidly renewable; Prevents growth of microorganisms (microbial) Uses: Raw material for many products, including base material for production of natural rubber

After processed and refined into natural rubber latex, certain physical properties are enhanced, such as outstanding elongation, tear properties, and recovery

Natural Rubber Natural rubber refers to dried natural rubber latex, which is more easily transported and stored than the raw material from which it is derived.

It can also be compounded with various processing aids and curatives and then made into products using more common manufacturing methods such as extraction, calendaring, and molding. Its physical properties are similar to those of natural rubber latex, such as outstanding elongation, tear resistance, and recovery ability, but vary slightly due to the differences in compounding and processing cycles.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Material Source: Sap extracted from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree (rubber tree)

Renewable; 5 – 10 years for rubber tree to reach maturity (time it can be tapped); Biodegradable; Recyclable/reusable; Thermoset material – Cannot be remelted

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Outstanding elongation; Tear resistance; Recovery ability; Excellent resilience; High tensile strength; Antimicrobial; Biodegradable

Tires, rubber springs, engine mountings, rubber hoses, shoe soles, cable coating

Lignin Lignin itself is a complex organic polymer responsible for the rigid and stiff support tissues in the outer layer of every plant cell, and can make up to 30% of a tree. It can be extracted from wood shavings and fibers and exhibits good mechanical properties, a high degree of rigidity, and a brownish color. It can then be blended with methanol and hydrochloric acid to form a resin-like substance, which can then be incorporated in a polymer blend or made directly into a duroplastic. After cellulose, lignin is the second most common biopolymer found in nature and has the potential to serve as a substitute for many products currently sourced from petrochemical substances.

Material Source:

Sustainability:

Extracted from wood shavings and fibers, including waste from the pulp and paper industry

Derived from a renewable raw material; Replaces synthetic adhesive as a natural alternative in a vibration welding process; Industrial by-product

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Good mechanical properties; High degree of rigidity; Brownish coloring; Duroplastic qualities (light and strong resin plastic reinforced with fibers)

Derived from a renewable raw material; Replaces synthetic adhesive as a natural alternative in a vibration welding process; Industrial by-product

Paper Bricks A material derived from recycled newspaper and wood glue. After the paper is turned into pulp, it is pressed into the desired shape, and when dry, has the strong and stone-like marbling aesthetics of a construction material and the warmth and soft touch of a newspaper.

Material Source: Recycled newspaper

Physical Properties: Strong Marbling aesthetics; Warm and soft-like texture; Water-resistant (not waterproof ); Color depends on paper Sustainability: Industrial by-product (paper can be recycled, but not reused indefinitely); Lower carbon footprint than traditional brick manufacturing Uses: Currently only furniture and walls; more applications being explored

Newspaper Wood A reversal of the typical wood to paper process, newspaper wood is constructed into a log using an adhesive free of solvents and plasticizers. When the log is cut, the layers of paper appear like the lines of a wood grain or rings of a tree. The log, therefore, not only resembles the aesthetic of real wood, but it can also be cut, milled and sanded, and can general be treated like any other type of wood.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Recycled newspaper

Wood-like aesthetics and can be treated just as any other type of wood

Sustainability:

Uses:

Upcycles and increases value of expired and misprinted newspaper; Reverses typical wood to paper process

Limited only for use by developer and contractor, but potential applications include boxes, veneers, boards, etc.

Animal

Bovine Leather Bovine leather is a durable and flexible material created through the process of tanning the rawhide and skin of animals such as cow, cattle, ox, etc. Bovine leather is tough, water repellent, can provide a good grip, and its characteristics only enhance with age. However, the tanning process of altering the proteins of the skin, which is required to produce such properties, involves chemical and organic compounds that can have a detrimental effect on the environment. It also uses large amounts of water and produces large quantities of pollution.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Animal rawhide and skin, specifically cow, cattle, ox, etc.

Tough; Water repellent; Good grip; Characteristics enhanced with age; Color can vary

Sustainability:

Uses:

Huge environmental impact; Agriculture by-product; Livestock (methane) production; Effluent runoff; Threat to endangered animals

Huge range from fashion to furniture to automotive, including upholstery, bags, book bindings, footware/apparel, etc.

Fish Leather Fish leather is derived from cured and tanned fish skin and serves as an alternative to typical exotic leathers. Due to its cross fiber structure, it has comparatively high tensile strength and tear resistance over other forms of leather. It, too, is water repellent, with a good grip and with characteristics that are only enhanced with age, but it is also more breathable and offers an eco-chic style.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Fish skins (both fresh- and salt-water)

High tensile strength and resistance to tearing Water repellent; Good grip; Breathable; Characteristics enhanced with age; Color depends on fish

Sustainability: Utilizes by product of fishing industry; Tanning process poses huge environmental impact; Effluent runoff; Threat to endangered animals

Uses: Similar to those of leather

Fish Scales This 100% fish-scale plastic, a by product of a second generation waste stream from fish leather, is a plastic alternative with a good strength, an attractive finish, and can easily be dyed in a variety of colors. It undergoes a simple heat and pressure treatment, using no extra binding agents, and offers a unique visual marbling effect. After its useful life has come to an end, it can then be either be dissolved in water or composted.

Material Source: Fish (both fresh- and salt-water)

Sustainability: By product of a by product Physical Properties: Good strength; Feels like plastic; Doesn’t smell or feel like fish; Can easily be colored; Unique visual marble effect; Compostable; Dissolves in water

Uses: Not yet commercially available, but potential applications include beakers, glasses, picnic products, swim goggles, and other non-durable, disposable plastic products

Protein This feather based plastic, an alternative to petrochemical based plastics, is a by product of big-agriculture and the mass consumption of chicken in North America. The protein, Keratin, is extracted from the feathers by breaking them down into small pieces and using heat to then break down proteins and link them together in a polymerization process, forming longer chains and a rigid structure. The resulting protein based plastic is transparent, brittle, and biodegradable.

Material Source: Chicken feathers

Physical Properties: Transparent; Brittle; Biodegradable

Sustainability: Agricultural byproduct; Highly biodegradable; Raw animal proteins potentially hazardous

Uses: Can be used for kinds of products, from plastic cups and plates to furniture

Special Wood Materials

Thermo-Hygro-Mechanically Compacted Wood As a natural material, the properties of wood are influenced heavily by environmental conditions. Tropical species, for example, experience less swelling when exposed to moisture than do other types of wood. Thermo-hygro-mechanically compacted wood combats this as an extremely dense and weather resistant wood material and is treated without the use of chemicals. It requires only heat, water, and mechanical forces. This treatment increases the mechanical properties of solid wood for technical applications in both construction and packaging through increased rigidity, density, and weather resistance, reducing the amount of moisture absorbed by the wood and thus the shrinking and swelling due to changes in humidity.

Material Source: Lower quality trees (wood) Uses: Construction; packaging Physical Properties: Increased rigidity; High density; Weather resistant; Dimensionally stable

Sustainability: Renewable resource; Less energy in procurement; Lowers demand for more exotic species such as teak and mahogany; Saves material; High durability; Requires less energy than manufacturing of wood fiber materials

Heat Treated Natural Wood Heat-treated natural wood is wood that has been heated in absence of oxygen in order to alter the chemical structure of the cell wall components and increase its durability. As with THM, by increasing both the quality and value of lower quality wood materials, there becomes a reduced need for more exotic species such as teak and mahogany. The shrinking and swelling of heat-treated natural wood is reduced up to 50-90%, it increases is biological resistance, and it is slightly darkened in color. However, its strength is reduced as a result of the high temp.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Lower quality trees (wood)

Reduced strength; High durability and dimensional stability Biological resistance; Lightweight; Dark Coloring; Good acoustics

Sustainability:

Uses:

Renewable and local resource; High durability (up to 50% more stable than soft wood); Reduced strength

Interior and exterior cladding; floors and indoor ceiling; moldings and sections; facades; garden furniture; playground equipment; noise screening; sauna paneling; fences and terraces

Composites

Cork Polymer Composite (CPC) A composition of natural cork, polyvinyl acetate, and sometimes coconut fiber, CPC combines the water permeable qualities of natural cork and the processing qualities of thermoplastics to create a 100% waterproof and rot resistant material suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Natural cork is also lightweight, dense, and fairly sponge-like. The blend is compounded and granulated and then the pieces are scattered and pressed under heat to determine the thickness. The resulting material has a special tactile quality and an ability to adjust flexibility without the use of softening agents.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Natural cork; Coconut fiber; Polyvinyl acetate (PVAc, “wood glue�)

Waterproof and rot-resistant; Special tactile qualities; Adjustable flexibility; Reduces vibrations and noise; Thermoplastic processing qualities

Sustainability:

Uses:

Based on renewable raw material; Recyclable; Degradable with use of crude oil-free matrix product

Sports equipment, orthopedic products, furniture, lamps, vases, equipment handles, cases, paneling

Coconut Composite An extremely hard and dimensionally stable material consisting of an MDF-core and a coconut wood outer layer. It has a high bending strength and acts as a natural dehumidifier. However, if humidity fluctuates drastically or becomes too humid, damage can occur. As coconut trees do not exhibit the same growth rings as other trees, coconut wood does not have growth rings, but more of a spotty aesthetic.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Coconut tree

Good dimensional stability; Hard outer layer; No growth rings; High bending strength; Absorbs moisture

Sustainability: MDF core consisting of wood fibers and wax or resin; Denser than plywood; Reduces need for more valuable exotic woods

Uses: Furniture surfaces, lamps, vases, dishes, wall panels, fashion accessories

Cocoform A mix of 60% coir fibers with 40% latex, Cocoform is a moldable and fibrous composite that can be easily formed into a number of complex shapes while still maintaining good dimensional stability. In addition, as both components are renewable, biodegradable, and compostable, so is the resulting composite. To form the material, coir fibers are removed from the coconut and piled into layers, between which latex is injected and then pressed into the designated shape.

Material Source: Coconut Tree Latex

Sustainability: Alternative wood source; Renewable raw material; Biodegradable; Compostable

Physical Properties: Biodegradable; Compostable; Good dimensional stability; Flexible density; Good strength and lightweight; Smooth; Spotted structure

Uses: Packaging; Upholstery

Almond Composite A blend of ground almond shells, which almost entirely consist of cellulose and lignin, and a biodegradable resin matrix, which can then be pressed into whatever shape is desired. It exhibits high strength and durability with a homogenous surface and no air permeability. As with most other wood materials, APC can be processed through milling, sawing, and gluing.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Almond Shells

High strength and durability; Homogenous surface structure; Airtight; Thermoplastic processing properties; Compostable; Recyclable

Sustainability:

Uses:

Replaces wood with plant waste material; Raw material grows more quickly than wood; Recyclable; Biodegradable and compostable with oil free-matrix product

Initially coffins, but has since expanded to furniture and interior design

Wood Polymer Composite Wood plastic composites, commonly referred to as “liquid wood,� consist of wood fibers, a plastic matrix, and a number of various additives.

The composite is formed through a thermoplastic process where it is melted and shaped three-dimensionally. Wood fibers generally make up between 50 - 90% of the resulting material, which also exhibits low shrinkage and thermal expansion, with a high degree of rigidity and resistance to moisture. These properties are particularly useful when complex geometrical shapes and a wooden appearance are necessary. Wood polymer composites can be processed using typical plastic processing techniques (injection molding, extrusion, compression molding, and thermofolding).

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Wood (trees)

Thermoplastic; Even property distribution; High degree of rigidity and bending strength; Good moisture resistance; Very stable; Strong acoustic qualities

Sustainability:

Uses:

Based on renewable raw materials; Substitute for tropical woods in outdoor use; Biodegradable when crude oil-free matrix is use

Casings for electronic devices; handles; furniture; outdoor ground surfaces; bio-urns; fashion accessories; packaging; instruments; building components for vehicle interiors

Linoleum Linoleum is composed of dried and milled flax seed mixed with other plant material and a jute or canvas backing. Plant materials can include pine resin, wood flour, lime dust, and/or ground cork. The jute backing is primarily composed of cellulose and lignin. The resulting material, similar to vinyl, is both extremely durable and flexible, but is more environmentally friendly than vinyl as it is also 100% biodegradable. In addition, all byproducts and waste of the process are also milled and used, the color does not fade, and the material is anti-static and dirt repellent, making it hypoallergenic and a good use for non-allergenic households, hospitals and health care facilities.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Flax seed, lime, pine, cork

Strong; Durable; Anti-bacterial; Fire and scratch resistant; Air purifying; Non-slip; Sensitive to moisture

Sustainability:

Uses:

Among “greenest� of floor materials

Non-allergenic households, hospitals and healthcare facilities; Breakdancing

Biodegradable; Compostable; Uses byproducts and waste of own process; Renewable raw materials

Maize Cob Board A wooden material with a central layer of maize cobs without seeds. It is a foam-like structure, possessing positive heat insulation properties and a low density, and is also resilient under mechanical pressure. An agricultural byproduct, maize cob board has a similar durability to particleboards but is also 50% lighter than traditional wood fiber panels.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Maize (corn)

Low densitity; High durability in axial direction; Similar qualities to particleboard, but 50% lighter; Good heat insulation and noise absorption

Sustainability:

Uses:

Cheap agriculture byproduct available in large quantities; 50% lighter than particleboard

Furniture; interior fittings; Door construction

Finishes and Stripers

Recyclamine Recyclamine is a part of a revolutionary epoxy resin system.that allows thermoset materials to become thermoplastic, and therefore, recyclable. Specifically, Recyclamine is the hardener that cures the epoxy when mixed together. It acts like somewhat of a chemical zipper that, if soaked in a biochemical with vinegar, the resin dissolves, allowing the plastic material to be saved and reused in injection molding. In addition, through the use of a low energy recycling process, high value materials, such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, or kevlar), as well as those that are compostable, can be recovered and repurposed or composted from the composite waste. It delivers chemical resistance and mechanical properties similar to conventional, non-recyclable amine-cured epoxies, such as flexibility, toughness, and low temperature processing.

Material Source: Unknown - Connora Technologies Sustainability:

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Expoxy resin hardener that allows thermoset plastics to become thermoplastic, recycling plastic material and recovering core materials; Low temperature processing

Reversible processing; Flexible; Tough; Low temperature processing;

Performance composutes, adhesives, and coatings

Acrodur Acrodur is a water based binding agent for natural, synthetic, and glass fibers. It is formaldehyde and solvent free, making it safe, simple and enviornmentally compatible. It also offers low emissions during both processing and application, as well as versatile properties such as an adjustable flexibility, excellent binding properties, oil and lubricant resistance, and water and moisture resistance. In the case of non-woven textiles, Acrodur also offers dimensional stability, tear resistance, and heat resistance.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Water based resin; Manufactured by BASF

Excellent binding properties; Oil and lubricant resistance; Water and moisture resistance

Sustainability:

Uses:

Water-based; Formaldehyde- and solvent-free; Only byproduct is water; Low emissions during processing and applicants

Water based resin for natural, synthetic, and glass fibers

Eco-Tuff Manufactured by Ecoprocte, Eco-Tuff is an industrial strength bio-based coating that has excellent abrasion, chemical, water, and weather resistance. It can be completely submerged in water, has superior durability and flexibility, and is non-flammable, as well as being virtually odorless and with a high build. It is also zero VOC. Eco-Tuff can be used on concrete, wood, fiberglass, and metal surfaces.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Biobased - Manufactured by Ecoprocte

Outstanding abrasion, chemical, water, and weather resistance; Waterproof and completely submersable; Superior durability and flexibility; Virtually odorless; Non-flammable; High build

Stain and finish for concrete, wood, fiberglass, and metal surfaces

Sustainability: Bio-based; Zero VOC

Aqua Resin Stain Finish Manufactured by Bioshield, this Aqua Resin Stain Finish is a non-toxic, water based wood stain finish for both interior and exterior use. It is odor-free, weather resistant, and with a low drip and low splash, it is also user friendly, as well as fast drying, light stable and UV resistant, and is made with natural raw materials. No solvents, biocides, fungacides or hazardous chemicals are used in the manufacturing and it is therefore non-toxic, as well as zero VOC.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Water based; Made with natural raw materials

Odor-free; Weather resistant; Water based; Low drip; Low splash

Sustainability:

Uses:

Zero VOC; Made with natural raw materials; No solvents, biocides, fungacides, or hazardous chemicals (non-toxic)

Wood stain finish for both interior and exterior use

EcoFast Gel Paint Stripper Ecoprocote’s EcoFast Gel Paint Stripper is a powerful and biodegradable, soy-based solvent replacement for safely stripping multiple levels of paint, coatings, and adhesives. EcoFast Gel Paint Stripper is an eco-friendly paint stripper that is formulated with a thick, gel-like texture that has a low odor, and a neutral pH level, allowing it to work safely on a broad range of materials, including concrete, stone, wood, and metal, as well as most plastics. Rather than dissolving the coating, EcoFast penetrates through the coating to delaminate the material or break the bond, creating a seal of the foreign material being removed, which makes for easy disposal. As it is both non-hazardous and non-flammable, this efficiently replaces highly volatile products such as acetone, MEK, Methylene Chloride, mineral spirits, D’Limonene, etc.

Material Source:

Physical Properties:

Uses:

Soybean

Low VOC; Thick; Gel-like; Low odor; Neutral pH; Creates a seal around material being stripped; Nonhazardous; Non-flammable; Powerful

Soy-based solvent replacement for safely stripping paint, coatings, and adhesives (alternative to Acetone, MEK, Methylene Chloride; mineral spirits, D’Limonene, etc.)

Sustainability: Soy-based solvent replacement; Neutral pH level; Non-hazardous; Biodegradable; Low VOC

Product Concept and Ideation

•• •••• •

Nitrite is converted to Nitrate by beneficial bacteria Nitrospira

NITRATE

NITRITE

Nitrate is absorbed by the plants in the growth process

Ammonia is converted

to Nitrite by beneficial

bacteria Nitrosomonas

AQUAPONICS IN ACTION AMMONIA Fish waste in the form of

Ammonia is secreted through the gills & in the urine

Excess & unwanted vegetables are fed to the fish as feed to

begin the whole cycle again.

AQUAPONIC PROCESS

Through such a biomimic design, no artificial fertilizers are needed, effi­ ciency is maximized, and water is conserved. All the nutrients needed by the plants will either be produced by the organisms within the system or provided by fish feed, making ev­ erything grown 100% organic. There are even enough of these nutrients that plants do not have to compete for resources, resulting in shorter growth cycles and reduced spatial needs. In addition, due to the closed nature of this aquaponics system, there is virtually no water loss. In some cases, certain aqua­ ponies systems may use as much as 10% of the water that is typically used in today's even most advanced agricultural techniques.

Life Cycle Assessment

In order to ensure the lowest ecological footprint possible while also maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and conversation sparking product, the following materials were selected for the products manufacturing.

Packaging Material

Packaging Material The packaging for The Farm Table will be based on a mushroom mate­ rial that is both reusable and fully compostable. The material, an al­ ternative to plastic foams such as polystyrene (styrofoam) and ex­ panded polystyrene, is made en­ tirely of mycelium, the vegetable root structure of a mushroom that form a network of fungal threads around natural organic matter. In the case of mycelium packaging, this natural organic matter is agri­ cultural waste. After mixing the my­ celium with the agricultural waste, the mixture filled into a shaping tool and set aside to grow for a few days. Since the mycelium sees the waste as food, it reaches out to digest it and in so doing forms a matrix of white fibers along the way. After the waiting period has concluded, the mycelium will have filled in all the spaces and gaps within the shaping tool, at which point the packaging material will be baked in order to dry the material out, stopping growth and prevent­ ing mushrooms and spores from forming.

Mycelium packaging has a density of 7.6 lbs/ft3, making it extremely lightweight, while also exhibiting a high perfor­mance and premium natural aesthetic at a competitive price when compared to con­ventional plastic fo ams. It is also no n-abrasive, voe free, rapidly renewable, and buoy­ant

The mycelium packaging will be grown into corner block shapes and used on the corners of each set of different sized materials, such as boards that run lengthwise and those that run widthwise. As for the grow bed and tray, a packaging will be grown that fits over both the top and the bottom of each component and supports the shape on all sides to ensure nothing breaks in transport. Once each component is ready for transport, the boards will all be packaged together and then the tray and grow bed will be packaged together.

Once the product has been assembled, the mycelium packaging can be broken down into smaller pieces by simply tearing them apart and can be incorporated in the growth medium of choice for the grow bed or in a home or local community garden.

The mycelium will provide added nutrients to the soil or other growth medium and encourage healthy growth of plants and roots.

Closing the Loop The Farm Table actually takes the total life cycle assessment one step further, in that it also considers the need for establishing widespread use of closed loop systems. At each point in material sourcing, processing, and manufacturing, every step addresses the possibility of incorporating waste as a feed or energy source within the process. With each component that is returned, and maybe even with the original mycelium packaging that was used to deliver the product, the materials are all able to recycled, repurposed, or composted, which in the latter case, could be used to provide additional nutrients to the soil at Thigpen Trail Bamboo Farm. By having the de­ livery driver pick up the ready compost after each delivery of bamboo, there are no added transportation costs.

In addition, when the bamboo is repurposed, it is broken down into a pulp to extract the lignin, which is then used to form a biobased natural adhesive, and then to create the dowel pins along with the original pulp the lignin was extracted from. Thirdly, with the low energy requirements of harvesting, transporting, and processing the bamboo, its vast positive environmental impacts, such as soil building, carbon sequestration, and the poten­ tial to be used as biomass in energy production, ideally to power the compression molding, but would only serve as a supplement, as well as its positive implications in allowing consumers to grow their own produce, decreas­ ing demand for interstate and international food transportation, reducing their ecological footprint and increasing their ecological handprint, the manufacturing and production of The Farm Table would most likely result in a net positive environmental impact.

Works Cited Van der Lugt, P., & Vogtlander, J. G. (2015). The Environmental Impact of Industrial Bamboo Products: Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Sequestration.

International Network for Bamboo and Rattan, Technical Report (No. 35).

Retrieved May 25, 2017.

References http://payload353.cargocollective.com/1/18/588283/9372293/BioSteel_4810_milk1_1000.jpg https://www.plasticstoday.com/sites/default/files/images/3_Fiberbundle.jpg http://www.biosteel-fiber.com/Contents/Home/Biofabricated_in_Germany_3.jpg https://img.purch.com/h/1000/aHR0cDovL3d3dy5saXZlc2NpZW5jZS5jb20vaW1hZ2VzL2kvMDAwLzA2Ny82MDQvb3JpZ2luYWwvc3BpZGVyLXdlYi5qcGVn http://www.biosteel-fiber.com/Contents/user_upload/projects_shoe.jpg https://previews.123rf.com/images/fotoruhrgebiet/fotoruhrgebiet1005/fotoruhrgebiet100500007/7009241-A-mat-made-of-coconut-fiber-is-used-as-acoaster-for-hot-drinks--Stock-Photo.jpg https://sc02.alicdn.com/kf/UT8i4TVX0XaXXagOFbXu/coconut-fiber.jpg https://previews.123rf.com/images/smuay/smuay1411/smuay141100434/33969798-Close-up-brown-color-coconut-fiber-mat-texture-Stock-Photo.jpg https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61L99sCV62L._SX522_.jpg https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61TcjlMtF9L._SY355_.jpg https://smhttp-ssl-17653.nexcesscdn.net/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/g/p/gp093a.jpg http://soa.utexas.edu/sites/default/disk/styles/flexslider_full/public/media/IMG_5261_modified_0.jpg?itok=G2N-E9ko https://i2.wp.com/www.usesofcoconut.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/coconut-fibre-bursh.jpg http://ntdaily.com/wp-uploads/2013/09/bark.jpg http://www.bambooride.com/sites/default/files/styles/beitragsbild_wide/public/contentimages/barkcloth_bambooride.jpg?itok=5i_Anaz1 https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0224/7737/products/right_e8995a01-5f84-46de-bba1-45c2b0baca45_1024x1024.jpg?v=1492263976 https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/cc/89/e1/cc89e10a33ee339ae485431202f1d1e2.jpg http://www.mintpressnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/industrial_hemp_field.jpg http://www.climatetechwiki.org/sites/climatetechwiki.org/files/images/teaser/micro-algae_teaser_image.jpg https://materia.nl/material/barktex/barktex-ona584-2/ https://materia.nl/material/barktex/barktex-ona584-5/ https://www.gordonbrush.com/images/horsehairbristlematerial.jpg https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1Zm2ENVXXXXbwapXXq6xXFXXXY/Microfiber-Imitation-font-b-Horsehair-b-font-fur-leather-material-Comparable-Genuine-horse-fur-91CM-137CM.jpg https://sc01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1hvwQNFXXXXXBXpXXq6xXFXXXE/Grey-PU-Leather-Yellow-Horse-Hair-Wallet.jpg http://knot-a-tail.com/sites/knot-a-tail.com/files/imagecache/product_full/hh200-12group2_0.JPG https://www.fetcheyewear.com/blog/post/all-about-acetate https://materia.nl/material/barktex/barktex-ona584-2/ http://www.cpr.org/sites/default/files/styles/full-width/public/images/bow_and_hair.jpg?itok=xcqflSbw https://www.yatzer.com/sites/default/files/article_images/2493/vow-8-Bio-Couture-by-Suzanne-Lee-yatzer-4.jpg https://www.iconeye.com/images/2014/05/images/2014/icon093-biocouture-small.jpg

http://designbeats.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/4-skin-transnatural-living-matter-s-frameweb-223150_slide-532x354.jpg https://exploringtheinvisible.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/img_3254_1.jpg https://veganenthusiasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/3059190-poster-p-1-this-gorgeous-sustainable-leather-is-made-from-pineapple-waste1.jpg http://ecowarriorprincess.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/pineapple-pinatex-vegan-leather-pineapple-leather.jpg https://savse.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Pinatex-products-2014.jpg http://www.ananas-anam.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/l7tw1f6iexpr9wiclctl-1.jpg https://assets.fastcompany.com/image/upload/w_596,c_limit,q_auto:best,f_auto,fl_lossy/fc/3059190-inline-10-this-gorgeous-sustainable-leather-ismade-from-pineapple.jpg https://unitedbiopolymers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img-triang-tech-800x400.jpg?x53375 https://unitedbiopolymers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/image-home-1-800x400.jpg?x53375 https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y5sU1othwQxyoZaShkO--7IsrjVfLi3nViN4D5g-Q4jLvkvuS1Gq=w400-h267 http://www.packaging-gateway.com/uploads/project/7500/images/146794/large/5-image.jpg https://www.thenakedscientists.com/sites/default/files/styles/featured_image/public/media/xpotatoes_wiki_01_4.jpg,qitok=ekdXY3cr.pagespeed. ic.73q5k6sQ3H.jpg http://www.premiumbeautynews.com/IMG/jpg/NatureWorks-PLA-Pellets.jpg https://polymerinnovationblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Green-Stripe-Compostable-Cup.jpg http://www.packagingdigest.com/sites/default/files/styles/featured_image_750x422/public/Web-Floreon-086962%20Tray16x9.jpg?itok=2LlO8pGT http://www.adream2012.eu/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/material/20_d1_1.jpg http://0-library.materialconnexion.com.library.scad.edu/ProductPage.aspx?&Keywords=PHB&Attributes=&Category=&Country=&Manufacturer=&Tag=&MC=500804&Lang=en&ProdID=&PageNum=1&ItemsPerPage=20&SearchDisp=0 http://0-library.materialconnexion.com.library.scad.edu/ProductPage.aspx?&Keywords=PHB&Attributes=&Category=&Country=&Manufacturer=&Tag=&MC=500804&Lang=en&ProdID=&PageNum=1&ItemsPerPage=20&SearchDisp=0 http://0-library.materialconnexion.com.library.scad.edu/ProductPage.aspx?&Keywords=PHB&Attributes=&Category=&Country=&Manufacturer=&Tag=&MC=618901&Lang=en&ProdID=&PageNum=1&ItemsPerPage=20&SearchDisp=0 http://www.economia3.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/phbottle-001.jpg http://atmedia.imgix.net/a5a4158d21d78fd749da7dbb3882382f9460aa34?auto=compress&w=640.0&fit=max https://media1.britannica.com/eb-media/28/154828-004-65C58CCF.jpg http://soynewuses.org/wp-content/uploads/soybean-oil1-300x225.jpg https://thisismold.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/tomato-fiber-heinz-ford-bioplastic-760x427.jpg https://www.polymersolutions.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tomato-peels.jpg https://cdn.materia.nl/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/ford-and-jose-cuervo-fuel-a-new-agave-based-bioplastic-01-640x360.png https://materia.nl/article/ford-jose-cuervo-fuel-new-agave-base-bioplastic/ https://materia.nl/article/ford-jose-cuervo-fuel-new-agave-base-bioplastic/ford-and-jose-cuervo-fuel-a-new-agave-based-bioplastic-3/ https://materia.nl/article/ford-jose-cuervo-fuel-new-agave-base-bioplastic/ford-and-jose-cuervo-fuel-a-new-agave-based-bioplastic-4/

https://materia.nl/article/ford-jose-cuervo-fuel-new-agave-base-bioplastic/ford-and-jose-cuervo-fuel-a-new-agave-based-bioplastic-5/ https://materia.nl/article/ford-jose-cuervo-fuel-new-agave-base-bioplastic/ford-and-jose-cuervo-fuel-a-new-agave-based-bioplastic-7/ https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/42/A_Castor_oil_plant.jpg https://www.treehugger.com/interior-design/swedish-design-makes-castor-oil-cool.html https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0c/cf/14/0ccf14b13cf7bf4a8d8d051834ea70ab.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e0/2d/0a/e02d0a858e0705ae4a53f9b3947f8b88.jpg http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fTJQ7ThiLBA/UDL4XuFL9QI/AAAAAAAAAAA/JwIYoS2RwUE/s1600/Arkema%2BAtomic%2Bski%2Bboot.jpg http://cfnewsads.thomasnet.com/images/sites/3/2012/12/soy_based_foam_seat_Ford_small.png https://mnsoybean.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/bioplastics.jpg http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/uploads/posts/web/2012/02/13298440957975.JPG https://articles.extension.org//sites/default/files/soybeans.jpg https://photos.travelblog.org/Photos/26990/119489/f/827619-Rubber-Tree-Sap-1.jpg http://colinpurrington.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/sweet-potato-white-latex-closeup.jpg http://p.globalsources.com/IMAGES/PDT/BIG/742/B1116343742.jpg https://0503be7f968393c0170ba45c-jphulksw.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/100_2605.jpg http://www.rockymountainmattress.com/images/products/preview/natural%20latex%20dunlop%20med.plush.jpg http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DNs6y_ArUlM/Trut5UHu0YI/AAAAAAAABp8/RUcjbkzEPwA/s1600/Picture+1366.jpg http://2.wlimg.com/product_images/bc-full/dir_10/284631/natural-raw-rubber-1391079.jpg http://lienanhrubber.com/en/data/news/4951836216_f7cc2e4d60_o.jpg https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41PICawbXML._SL500_.jpg http://im01.itaiwantrade.com/3abd0728-20d7-409d-96c8-da4632639869/c1dfbae6-667e-4fbb-846e-689fa7a3121e_%E6%88%90%E5%93%81.-360x360.

JPG http://images.natureworldnews.com/data/thumbs/full/41231/720/0/0/0/car-tires.jpg https://ilbioeconomista.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/wood-in-uk.jpg https://livingcircular.veolia.com/sites/g/files/dvc186/f/Article/2015/12/icono-s95-aircarbon-1024x598_0.jpg http://img.edilportale.com/product-thumbs/b_prodotti-91834-rel0ee00f414d404be7957a6af920850bf5.jpg http://www.scionresearch.com/__data/assets/image/0003/48855/bioadhesives_plywood.jpg http://4.bp.blogspot.com/__uBcqG0yAsM/TQaIu2HJEOI/AAAAAAAAALs/b1Ejex-W1q8/s1600/plastic+made+of+wood.png https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-1/ https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-3/ https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-4/ https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-9/ https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-12/ https://materia.nl/article/paperbricks-bricks-furniture-newspapers/paperbricks-bricks-and-furniture-made-from-old-newspapers-13/

https://www.yatzer.com/sites/default/files/article_images/2592/Newspaper-Wood-Mieke-Meijer-Vij5-yatzer-4.jpg https://www.yatzer.com/sites/default/files/article_images/2592/Newspaper-Wood-Mieke-Meijer-Vij5-yatzer-23.jpg https://d1i8ol718y0906.cloudfront.net/production/products/3178/product/shwood-wood_newspaper-sunglasses-select-canby-paper_walnut-grey_polarized-left-s-2200x800.jpg?1461977921 https://cdn.psfk.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/peugeot_ONYX_6.jpg http://assets.dornob.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/reused-newspaper-wooden-roll.jpg http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nbUxdxEYokQ/Tc5cqmFR3YI/AAAAAAAAAts/y87R0HGuIyo/s320/Vij5_NW-ReadingLight.gif https://products-zady-com3.a.ssl.fastly.net/ba/846920c58c11e3a48a4d624e45e556/12-10-10-SHINOLA-HORWEEN-11510_VSCO.jpg https://huaracheblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_0754.jpg https://img0.etsystatic.com/122/0/7724401/il_340x270.1028844842_7izh.jpg http://vcleat.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC_8437.jpg http://thefishleather.co/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/The-Fish-Leather-Company-Suede-Leathers-250x250.jpg http://www.watoday.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/r/g/y/v/image.related.articleLeadwide.620x349.gmm393.png/1455164841417.jpg http://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/n-pktq5q/ny2ro/product_images/uploaded_images/fishspecieswithleathersamples.jpg https://sc02.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1YbU1KVXXXXXcaXXXq6xXFXXXR/Fish-Leather-salmon.jpg http://www.ecouterre.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/fishscale-armor-1-537x402.jpg https://media.treehugger.com/assets/images/2011/10/plastic-from-fish-6.jpg https://media.treehugger.com/assets/images/2011/10/plastic-from-fish-3.jpg http://assets.inhabitat.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/03/6-Awe-Inspiring-Designs-That-Make-The-Best-Out-Of-Food-728-4-537x358.jpg https://3c1703fe8d.site.internapcdn.net/newman/gfx/news/hires/2011/newprocesstu.jpg http://static.seattletimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2014957136-300x0.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/36/87/89/3687892f15e59b36cfa9072c48fa2a32.jpg https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Peer_Haller/publication/265146291/figure/fig1/AS:295943229460494@1447569772948/Figure-1-Wooden-tube-with-translucent-glass-fiber-reinforcement.png http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17480272.2012.751935 http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Thermo-treated-ash-floor.jpg http://www.kuikenbrothers.com/wp-content/uploads/DSC027641-920x412.jpg http://www.deluxen.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/wood-284.jpg http://packcrateship.com/images/heat-treat-wood2.jpg http://www.winwood-products.com/images/thermowood.jpg http://www.archello.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/header_detail_large/story/media/ONA183-%282%29.jpg http://www.yankodesign.com/2008/10/03/modern-woodshop-tools/ http://www.haute-innovation.com/cms/upload/Material-Hightlights/KorkPolymere.jpg http://www.corkstore.com/lg_aquacork-strips-install.jpg

http://www.amorimcorkcomposites.com/media/2152/header-corkwall-mosaic.jpg?mode=crop&width=380&height=500 http://www.district-moto.co/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Nexx-X60-cork1-1000x1000-1.jpg https://ecokylacrawford.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/coconut-wood-flooring.jpg https://adorable-home.com/wp-content/gallery/5-trending-materials-for-a-modern-home/5-trending-materials-for-a-modern-home-1.jpg http://myworldofcreativeinspiration.blogspot.com/2012/10/innovative-materials.html http://greenworkscabinetry.com/images/features/vanities.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/55/40/58/554058e50502a0809248644655a56699.jpg https://materia.nl/material/cpc-cork-polymer-composite/ona183-6/ http://5892-presscdn-26-36.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/wooden-coffee-tea-cups-coconut-wood.jpg https://4.imimg.com/data4/TG/XA/MY-34415400/hard-coconut-wood-round-logs-500x500.jpg http://kauaitreeservice.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/coconut-tree-trimming.jpg http://www.enkev.com/upload/markets/510x480/047979b43.jpg http://en.iscanews.ir/news/574257 http://images.huffingtonpost.com/2014-03-07-almondsSanjayAcharyaatWikimediacommons-thumb.jpg https://materia.nl/material/mastalmond/mastalmond-ona570-1/ https://materia.nl/material/mastalmond/mastalmond-ona570-2/ https://materia.nl/material/mastalmond/mastalmond-ona570-4/ http://www.iqapgroup.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_1000x667/public/BIOBATCH%20IMAGES-02.jpg?itok=MOoguNJR https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/18/b6/5c/18b65cc52159281bead0035e58e58643.jpg https://materia.nl/material/wood-plastic-composite/woo148-2/ https://www.plasticstoday.com/sites/default/files/images/Messe_201414_AMI-WPC_rev_05a.jpeg http://arswoodenflooring.com/images/Wood_Plastic_Composite_DIY_Easy_Decking_Tiles.jpg http://www.home-style-choices.com/flooring.html http://www.atlantadancefloorrental.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/webassets/GAAQUARIUM.jpg http://www.fashionflooringllc.com/photo-gallery/category/linoleum http://clevelandeast.floorcoveringsinternational.com/products/cleveland-linoleum/ http://www.haute-innovation.com/cms/upload/Material-Hightlights/maize.jpg https://materia.nl/material/bioflexi/bioflexi-ona567-4/ https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/52/23/c4/5223c437de640daf6bb7dbf2928821a9.jpg http://source.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Maize-720x400.jpg https://materia.nl/material/bioflexi/bioflexi-slider/ https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0763/2851/products/3DOM_Ingeo_PLA_Ocean_Blue_1024x1024.jpg?v=1448146129 http://www.inhabitots.com/parapu-chair-paper-composite-seats-from-sweden/ http://static.dnaindia.com/sites/default/files/styles/half/public/2016/11/16/520045-silkworm-bombyx-mori-silk-worm-caterpillar-mulberry-plant-wi-

ki-commons.jpg https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/87/ac/5c/87ac5cd488b8c193569810a19170711a.jpg http://www.bluemaize.net/im/arts-crafts-sewing/silk-fabric-10.jpg https://www.psfk.com/2013/11/artichoke-chair.html http://www.complex.com/style/2013/11/chair-made-of-artichoke-pulp https://www.thenakedscientists.com/articles/features/bio-plastics-turning-wheat-and-potatoes-plastics

Thank you!