Materials
Manhattan Matter
Sunflower BioMaterial
Copper Finishes
- Biocomposites
Copper
Experiments with Non-Toxic finishes2022
Parsons School of Design
Individual Project
This project focused on the relationships between material, performance, and use in design and evaluated in the context of sustainable practices. The material study focused on examining different kinds of finishes that could be attained through physical and chemical means on metals. The research questioned existing practices of paintinand powder coating metal, which have known toxic effects on the environment and human health.
Chemical Patinas -
Copper + Ammonia Vapours
Copper + Salt + Hydrogen Peroxide
Copper + Hard Boiled Eggs (Sulphur)
Copper is a highly reactive metal with inherent antibacterial properties and the ability to develop a patina. The process started with the exploration of the effects of different compound solutions and combinations such as salt,
vinegar, eggs(sulphur), and ammonia to assess patinization results. It was discovered that the most toxic patina produced the most vibrant color, which led to research for alternative ways to achieve similar levels of vibrant colors on copper without being harmful.
Chemical Patinas -
Copper + Masking Tape as Resist
Copper + Salt + Water + Electric Current
Etched Copper plate after 30mins
Techniques such as electro and salt etching were tested, but the application of heat at very high temperatures on copper revealed unimaginable bright colors. Through the process, it was discovered that by heating and cooling copper to different temperatures, it was possible to attain approximately 15 different shades and hues. It was fascinating to see that a process as simple as heating, which caused no harm to anyone, could give metal such vibrant colors without making the surface toxic. The colors achieved were beyond any commonly associated and naturally occurring with metals or copper.