Research Assistant: Tashania Audrey Akemah
3D-printed soils and insulative fibrous infills.
Research Assistant: Reem Makkawi
Research Assistant: Tashania Audrey Akemah
Re-printing mix fibres and 3D printed soil
Research Assistant: Eleanor Davol
The Natural Materials Lab showcased “3D-Printed Earth-Fiber Patterns Inspired by Traditional Basketry” at the 2024 Form Next Exhibition in Frankfurt as part of Built Environment Additive Manufacturing Symposium.
This series of objects is part of an ongoing research on earth-fiber composites to create rope or yarn-like aesthetics that echoes basketry. The project moves between traditional and contemporary weaving to reimagine ancient materials in the context of the present.
The Built Environment - Additive Manufacturing (BE-AM), led by scientists from the Technical University of Darmstadt, is a vibrant hub connecting researchers, designers, manufacturers, and users to push the boundaries of digital imagination.
3D Printed Earth-Fiber Basketry was orientated around a three step methodology; (1) We began by developing and testing the printability of natural mix-designs that are rich in plant fibers for reinforcement within a clay-biopolymer paste. (2) Once a mix design was selected, we characterized the processing parameters for each successful mix-design in terms of nozzle size, layer height, extrusion and flow rate, and clogging prevention. (3) Then, we examined a range of basketry typologies for surface curvature threshold (vertical, convex, and concave profiles) and contour craft demonstrations as final texture results.
This method of production and design was key to embodying traditional inspirations in sustainable digital design. Ultimately, this work asks us to reimagine ancient materials to foster a deeper connection between constructed forms and our relationship with earth.
Research performed by Lola Ben-Alon with Dr. Olga Beatrice Carcassi, the Natural Materials Lab’s Associate Research Scientist and lab assistants, Mohammad-Hossein Zowqi, and EJ Shin
