Matières Volatiles
Matières Volatiles
Matières Volatiles is a research driven industrial design project developed during my Master’s at ENSCI-Les Ateliers. It explores the transformation of avian industrial waste into high value bio-materials, challenging the dominance of traditional plastics. By investigating the untapped potential of waste feathers, the project aims to bridge the gap between ecological responsibility and industrial production, offering a sustainable alternative with unique aesthetic and structural properties for future product applications.
My contribution
My work focused on hands-on material experimentation, where I developed a new bio-composite by combining waste feathers with bio-sourced binders. I conducted over 30 technical experiments to optimize density, translucency, and strength, managing everything from mold design to thermal curing. To demonstrate the material's viability, I designed and produced functional prototypes, ensuring that the final outcomes were both technically feasible and aligned with circular design principles.
The team
Year
2017
This research project was conducted as part of the Master’s program in Creation and Contemporary Technologies at ENSCI-Les Ateliers.
Based on experiments with possible alternative materials, research has focused on the transformation and use of feathers. This raw material is produced in large quantities worldwide and, once used, is not recycled. The aim of this research is therefore to extend or transform its lifespan.
One of the approaches has led to the development of a material made from feathers with starch as a binder. It is solid, lightweight, and has the ability to be reshaped.
The material has different characteristics depending on the type of feather and how it is processed. This can range from a lightweight, less resistant material to a rigid and compact one.
Possible applications would be to use it in packaging, in furniture by molding it or using it in sheets.