Recently, I traveled to Frankfurt with a team young designers to visit Material Vision 2009. This excursion is a part of my teachings as visiting professor at the Bremen University of the Arts (HfK Bremen) which focuses on the aesthetics of materials and manufacturing in design.
Material Vision is a biannual trade show showcasing the latest materials and technologies for product developers, designers and architects. I asked the students, or "materials scouts", to share what they liked best. Here's what they found!
Nano-Stone Forget stone-printed foils, these sheets are made by real slate stone. A special resin makes sure that the stone slates are kept in place. Unlike sculpting heavy rocks, Nano-Stone allows you to work with a flexible and lightweight sheet that is only 0,3 millimeter thin! Website: www.richter-furniertechnik.de
See more materials and resources after the jump!
Technogel
Technogel is a polyurethane based substance that is completely non-toxic (made without using oils or plasticizers). This special gel is rooted in the medical industry but its great cushioning qualities make this a great choice for seating, shoes, and other products that require durable comfort.
Website: www.technogel.it
Basalt fibers
Basalt fibers are all natural minerals, made by melting basalt rocks at about 1,400 degrees Celsius. Their extreme temperature resistance already resulted in applications such as fireproof textiles for aerospace applications. Similar to carbon it can be used to reinforce plastics or concretes and is significantly cheaper (up to 10 times lower) than carbon fiber.
Website: www.deutsche-basalt-faser.de
Phosphorescent enamel
Most people know this phosphorescent effect from their clock face lighting up late at night. Mark Braun used this effect in a more poetic context for a light series (by Authentics) produced using phosphorescent enameled steel that give a surprising afterglow after the light has been switched off.
Website: www.authentics.de
Skinbag Skinbag is probably more an concept than a material itself. Most applications are made of natural rubber, polyurethane or silicone to suggest the flexibility and elasticity of human skin. The Skinbag designers foresee a future with more clothes and surfaces with an organic appearance. Website: www.skinbag.net
Many thanks to Marta, Nadine, and Pascal for their contributions.
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