biomaterial

Fibers have been used since prehistoric times for various activities due to their structural properties. Woven plant fibers have been present throughout history and across cultures, utilized in clothing, adornments, ropes, food, and other economic, cultural, and architectural applications (Hedges, 2010). Natural fibers, due to their diversity, offer viable alternatives across multiple industries and sectors.

According to Peças et al. (2018), natural fibers can be classified based on their origin into three main groups: animal, mineral, and plant-based. Among these, plant-based fibers are the most widely accepted by the industry and the most extensively analyzed by the research community. This is primarily due to their short growth cycle, high availability, and renewable nature. Additionally, Fibrenamics (2022) highlights that compared to traditional natural fibers, plant-based fibers offer several advantages, including abundance, low cost, low density, carbon dioxide absorption from the environment, and biodegradability.

This research presents the experiments conducted using waste materials from floriculture, restaurant operations, and carpentry as part of a six-month project developed at the University of Porto. The primary objective was to explore innovative alternatives for producing biodegradable pots by reintegrating natural fiber waste into the industry.

Throughout the research process, a meticulous collection of natural fibers was carried out, followed by drying and processing stages. These fibers were then used in experiments where they were mixed with natural binding agents. The predominant choice for the binding agent was gelatin, selected for its ability to make the pots biodegradable and decompose through microbial activity.

The research encompassed multiple phases, from initial fiber collection and separation to experimentation and manufacturing. Various fabrication methods were employed, including molding, stitching, and folding techniques. Each stage contributed to the development of pots with unique textures and shapes.

By the end of the research, multiple pot prototypes were created, offering not only distinctive aesthetic qualities but also an innovative marketing perspective. These pots could be stacked or even folded, introducing a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to the industry. This perspective emphasizes the importance of incorporating environmentally responsible materials and practices in pot production. Consequently, the final results highlight not only the technical viability of this approach but also the potential to transform discarded materials into valuable products, contributing to a more conscious and ecological lifecycle within Industrial Design.

Designer: Adonis Evangelista

Supervisor : Ligia Lopes