Biomaterials for change Natural fiber composites to support design learning and rural development

Abstract

One of the major environmental challenges of our time is plastic pollution. Motivated by this global environmental challenge, the authors launched a research program to investigate the development and application of natural fiber composites (NFCs) as potential substitutes for foamed plastics (e.g Styrofoam). In parallel, the authors also established a new research group and a capstone course in their industrial design program to engage undergraduate students in this research initiative. Between 2018 and 2021, the authors led a research program intended to explore the use of wastes from corn crops (Zea mays) and fibers from fique plants (Furcraea andina) for developing new NFCs and their applications. Throughout this program, the authors mentored five cohorts of undergraduate students in industrial design, who proposed and conducted their capstone projects in alignment with the program’s research agenda. This program was funded by internal grants and the investment of a private company interested in producing and commercializing some of the applications developed by the researchers. As results of this research initiative supported by undergraduate students, the research team developed a family of six new Natural Fiber Composites and a collection of near a dozen products that applied the new materials. These new products were aimed at the three industries that consume the most foamed plastics, that is, construction, packaging, and automotive. At an experimental level, these new materials have shown beneficial properties for these industries since they are highly resistant to impact, have low thermal conduction, have high acoustic insulation capacity, and have low weight. The preliminary findings from material testing and market validation show great promise for continuing developing and scaling up the production of these new NFCs and their applications with the ultimate goal of making significant contributions to the social, environmental, and economic welfare of rural communities that produce corn and fique in Colombia and other developing countries.