Monera Wood

Awareness of the challenges we face from the climate crisis is at an all time high. As its nefarious symptoms spring up around the globe, more and more of us are searching for ways to mitigate its impact. The field of Bio-design has become a fertile breeding ground for a large swathe of such interventions. We have begun to diversify our material lexicons, adding the like of spider silk garments, mushroom leather and algae based textiles. However, these new interventions always remain aloof and inaccessible to the general public. How can we begin to expedite the introduction of these new sustainable materials?

PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoate) Is a bio plastic produced through bacterial fermentation, a process that can be fed by agricultural waste. Unlike many of its competitors it is not only produced independently of fossil fuels, but it is fully compostable, meaning if it finds its way into the natural environment then it will enrich the ecosystem rather than pollute it. Its so non-toxic that its considered bio-compatible and appropriate for medical implants. The reason we are yet to see this material flooding the market is because it is approximately three times as expensive as its fossil fuel counterparts. How can we re-position these kinds of emerging technologies so that they can be introduced to the wider public?

In my last project I explore how we can use systems design thinking to turn multiple pain points into a cohesive opportunity. Monera wood is a regenerative bio-composite material that uses PHA as a binding agent for sawdust waste produced from woodworking. The result is a wood like material that could be used for furniture production. The addition of the hard wood sawdust creates a more luxurious material that can demand a higher price point than the PHA alone. The PHA also provides a degree of protection to the wood without the need for any toxic preservatives or sealants. In return, the wood gives the composite a high carbon content, a kew component for a healthy compost bin.

This is a an ongoing research project and the samples shown here are my initial proofs of concepts. They are currently on show at the Hub in Sleaford as part of the Craft Sustained exhibition. The next phase of the project will look at developing production methods for a minimum viable product. This will include making a Monera wood 3D printing filament and experimenting with injection moulds. In the short term I aim to use hardwood waste for a more luxurious material but if the cost of production drops then I can explore the potential of developing a compostable chip board / OSB board for flatpack furniture.