Cellulose

Plastex: Black Matter

Plastex: Black Matter is a cellulose-based material created during a textile waste recycling research project at Sliperiet, Umeå University.

The material is made of cellulose-based bioplastic mixed together with locally produced charcoal. The material mixture was applied on a natural hemp fabric, shaped into the object and left to dry. In this research, the designer speculated on the future possibility of using only natural materials to create contemporary design objects, instead of using mixed or synthetic ones, which are harmful to our environment.

In this experimental practice, she joined technological and artistic practice together, experimenting with different techniques centred around cellulose-based bioplastic and various locally harvested organic ingredients through hands-on and intuitive methods. During her experimental process, the artist let the materials mix together freely and followed the natural fabric transformations into contemporary art and functional design objects. All objects were made only of cellulose-based materials, wholly organic, lightweight, but stable and waterproof. The objects made of Black Matter material are long-lasting and sustainable.

Text submitted by the maker and edited by the Future Materials Bank. For information about reproducing (a part of) this text, please contact the maker.