Bureau de Change Biomaterial Tiles
Katerina Dionysopoulou and Billy Mavropoulos, the founders of Bureau de Change, joined forces with Harrison to investigate the potential of utilizing this material for the development of an environmentally friendly cladding system for buildings. Collaboratively, they have developed a collection of cast glass facade tiles, drawing inspiration from the intricate patterns found in 19th-century terracotta chimney pots.
A bio-glass tile created from the ground-up shells of quagga mussels, local sand, and waste wood ash represents a remarkable fusion of sustainable materials. By harnessing the discarded shells of quagga mussels, which are an invasive species in certain regions, these tiles not only repurpose waste but also aid in ecosystem management. The combination of mussel shells, local sand, and waste wood ash forms a unique composition that offers both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits.
The quagga mussel shell particles, when incorporated into the tile, contribute to its distinctive texture and visual charm. The shells' natural variations in color and pattern provide an organic and captivating element to the tile's surface. Moreover, the inclusion of local sand helps to strengthen the tile's structure, ensuring durability and longevity.
In addition to utilizing mussel shells, the incorporation of waste wood ash enhances the sustainability profile of these bio-glass tiles. Waste wood ash, derived from industrial or agricultural processes, serves as a supplementary material in the tile production process. By repurposing this byproduct, the tiles reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact associated with ash disposal.
The bio-glass tiles made from quagga mussel shells, local sand, and waste wood ash offer a remarkable example of eco-friendly innovation. Through their unique composition, these tiles not only showcase the beauty of natural materials but also promote sustainable practices by repurposing waste and contributing to ecosystem preservation. With their aesthetic appeal, durability, and environmental benefits, these bio-glass tiles provide a sustainable solution for various architectural and design applications. Tiles made from mussel shells offer a unique and sustainable alternative to traditional ceramic or stone tiles. These tiles are created by utilizing discarded mussel shells, which are typically considered waste in the seafood industry. By repurposing these shells into functional and aesthetically appealing tiles, designers and manufacturers are embracing eco-friendly practices and reducing waste.
The process of creating tiles from mussel shells typically involves several steps. First, the shells are collected from seafood processing facilities or restaurants, ensuring that they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Next, the shells are crushed and ground into fine particles, forming the base material for the tiles. This step helps to maintain the natural texture and appearance of the shells. To bind the shell particles together and create a durable tile, a sustainable adhesive or resin is used. This adhesive not only ensures the structural integrity of the tiles but also enhances their longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Additionally, it contributes to the overall sustainability of the product, as environmentally friendly adhesives can be utilized.
By repurposing discarded shells, the tiles contribute to the reduction of waste and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, these tiles are often biodegradable and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, minimizing their environmental impact.
Quagga mussel shells were used as a stabilizer to strengthen the glass in the bio-glass tiles due to several reasons. Firstly, quagga mussel shells are composed of calcium carbonate, a mineral known for its inherent strength and rigidity. When ground up into fine particles and incorporated into the glass matrix, these shell fragments act as reinforcement, enhancing the overall structural integrity of the tiles.
Secondly, the unique composition of quagga mussel shells, particularly their high concentration of calcium carbonate, provides a beneficial chemical interaction within the glass material. Calcium carbonate has binding properties and can form strong bonds with the surrounding glass matrix, creating a cohesive and robust structure. This bond formation further contributes to the strengthening of the glass and prevents potential cracking or breakage.
Additionally, the inclusion of quagga mussel shells in the bio-glass tiles helps to distribute stress and impact forces across a larger area, reducing the risk of localized stress points that could compromise the tile's strength. This reinforcement effect enhances the tiles' durability, making them more resistant to wear, impact, and other mechanical stresses typically encountered in architectural applications.
The inherent texture and distinct coloration found in the material are its most remarkable attributes, which ultimately contribute to the tiles' effectiveness. He emphasizes that each tile possesses its own micro-texture, resulting in captivating light interactions.
Looking to the future, one of the potential applications for these bio-glass tiles is to explore their use as an eco-friendly cladding material for buildings. The combination of quagga mussel shells, local sand, and waste wood ash offers a sustainable alternative to traditional cladding materials, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects while adding a unique aesthetic element. The tiles' durability, natural texture, and environmentally friendly composition make them an intriguing option for architects and designers seeking innovative solutions for sustainable building practices. Eco-glass, with its sustainable composition, holds promising potential in the field of architecture, although it does come with certain challenges. The handmade process of creating bio-glass tiles ensures that each tile possesses a distinct color and finish, but it also introduces the possibility of imperfections.
