8 of the Most Inventive New Materials From the MCX Library
Connect with the most inventive new materials from the
Material ConneXion library
:
1. Material
: Organic Blocks.
Manufacturer
:
Sustainable Materials
.
Composition
: Cork-based substances.
Standout
: Molded from a composite of recycled materials, these faceted forms are sound-absorbing and insulating as well as antimicrobial and non-allergenic.
2. Material
: Contrast Clip Georgette.
Manufacturer
:
AirDye
.
Composition
: PET plastic.
Standout
: An energy-efficient method of controlling the dye penetration allows each face of a single-layer textile to take on a color different from the other.
3. Material
: Nile Croc.
Manufacturer
:
Sonite Innovative Surfaces
.
Composition
: Polyester.
Standout
: Providing a lower-cost alternative to crocodile leather or ceramic tile, shapes are arranged in mosaic patterns on a fabric backing.
4. Material
: Shou Sugi Ban.
Manufacturer
:
Zwarthout
.
Composition
: Douglas fir, oak.
Standout
: An ancient Japanese technique of burning and charring wood preserves it, making these panels resistant to rot and insects as well as a subsequent fire.
5. Material
: Mixed Mosaic Eco Flooring.
Manufacturer
:
Deesawat Industries Co
.
Composition
: Hardwood, polyethylene, and aluminum.
Standout
: Discarded beverage cartons and scrap metal are recycled and blended with timber to form durable panels with a duotone look.
6. Material
: Perivale Welsh.
Manufacturer
:
Daniel Heath
.
Composition
: Slate.
Standout
: Centuries-old shingles are salvaged from houses, coated with clear lacquer to preserve the patina, then laser-engraved.
7. Material
: Bespoke.
Manufacturer
:
Lavada
.
Composition
: Polymer, glass fiber, cement, and sand.
Standout
: Unlike regular cement tile, these composite versions don’t crack, so three-dimensional effects are possible without compromising structural integrity.
8. Material
: Honeycomb.
Manufacturer
:
Lenderink Technologies
.
Composition
: Recycled polymers.
Standout
: Moisture-resistant panels can be curved or folded into nearly any shape, then embossed, perforated, printed, coated, or painted.
>>See more from the September 2015 issue of
Interior Design