Index of materials

In a logic of production conscious and responsible, it seems to be to have to take a position subject of the materials, and thus favour a furniture made from healthy materials.
Eco-design is the consideration and the reduction, by design, of the impact of the environment through a management responsible for natural resources.

It is a preventive approach that is characterized by a global approach taking into account the entire life cycle of the object: from the extraction of raw materials until its elimination at the end of life and all criteria environmental (consumption of raw materials, water and energy, emissions to water and air, production of waste...).

The lifespan and recycling of our objects are programmed from conception to end of life. This approach is not new at the smarin designer Stéphanie Marin’s. Indeed, in 1990, her first project was in the recycling industry European textile industry and she designed her first production: a very important point of view forerunner in the fashion world.

Deepening the experience, smarin designs objects that best integrate with the environment.

Our expertise allows us to also to meet the standards and ERP fire classification, while guaranteeing the use of materialsand components not harmful to health and the environment. Glues, varnishes and processing treatments or usual finishes give way to the alternative components, free of chemical solvents. This positioning is all the more important since we know that regulatory standards and legislation evolves more slowly than research.

To date the elements at our disposal allow us to predict that toxic substances contained in the products of fireproofing are a danger for people and the environment. The are criticizes their disruptive effects endocrine, and their difficulty in degrade. The same is true for the production of hard plastic furniture or recycled producing nanoparticles that companies do not yet know manage.

The choice of material is very important: the smarin studio has a material library focused on materials research the healthiest. The material library is a place of inspiration and meeting to stimulate and concretize projects oriented towards the discovery of materials most appropriate.

Algae

Seaweeds, or macroalgae, refer to thousands of species of macroscopic, multicellular marine algae. The term includes certain types of macroalgae Rhodophyta (red), Phaeophyta (brown) and Chlorophyta (green). Seaweed species such as kelps provide essential nursery habitat for fisheries and other marine species, protecting food sources; other species, such as planktonic algae, play a vital role in carbon sequestration and produce at least 50% of the Earth's oxygen.

History

The use of algae goes back many centuries, and historical records testify to their importance in various cultures. Asian communities, such as Japan and China, have long incorporated seaweed into their diets and traditional medicine due to its nutritional and health benefits. In recent years, seaweed applications have extended far beyond the culinary realm. The unique properties of algae, notably their high absorption capacity and biodegradability, have led to their incorporation into textiles, bioplastic packaging and even agricultural products.

Properties

Algae are naturally abundant in the oceans, making it possible to grow them quickly without depleting limited resources. Seaweed is highly absorbent, making it an effective choice for absorbing moisture and pollutants. What's more, its biodegradability supports sustainable practices, minimizing environmental impact. Its adaptability extends not only to culinary and sanitary applications, but also to bioplastics, fertilizers and cosmetic formulations.

Ecological footprint

Seaweed has a convincing ecological footprint that benefits both the environment and industry. Its cultivation requires no fresh water, arable land or synthetic fertilizers, reducing the pressure on terrestrial resources. Algae growth even absorbs excess nutrients from water, offering potential solutions to marine ecosystem problems such as eutrophication. However, careful consideration of cultivation practices is needed to avoid adverse effects on coastal ecosystems. Balancing promising benefits with responsible harvesting methods and regulations can maximize the positive ecological impact of seaweed for sustainable applications.

Ash

Fraxinus belongs to the Oleaceae family. There are about sixty known species of ash trees that live mainly in temperate forests. An adult tree can reach a height of 40 metres and live for 250 years. It is recognisable by its large, black buds and is a slender tree with an airy canopy that likes cool, moist soil. The bark is smooth and ash-grey in colour, sometimes with small whitish spots. The ash is a tree with a high symbolic value, representing longevity, strength, rebirth and peace.

History

Ash wood has been used since prehistoric times to make tools. In ancient times and in the Middle Ages, it was used to make spear and javelin handles. Incidentally, Homer makes Ash the wood of the javelin used by the most terrible warrior of Iliad, Achilles. It is still used to make cheese rings and its foliage is used as pasture for ruminants in dry summers. Its medicinal virtues have been known for a long time. Hippocrates himself prescribed it to his patients. Ash has a purifying quality which is particularly effective against water retention and weight gain.

Properties

Both flexible and resistant, ash offers exceptional physical and mechanical properties. Its long fibres give it a high elasticity and strength. It is also known to have numerous medicinal properties: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antipyretic qualities etc.

Ecological footprint

It is possible to consider that the use of ash as a building material creates a «carbon sink», i.e. the use of ash as a timber can be attributed with having negative emissions. This is because ash contains carbon that has been removed from the atmosphere during its growth. If the carbon contained in the cut trees does not return to the atmosphere but remains in the woodwork, while at the same time other trees start to grow in place of those that have been cut down, man is therefore helping to remove CO2 from the atmosphere instead of adding to it.

Bamboo

Bamboos are monocotyledonous plants belonging to the Poaceae family (grasses), subfamily Bambusoideae. They are distinguished from other grasses by their arborescent habit and often long, woody stems, and are divided in botanical classification into two tribes: Bambuseae, native to tropical and subtropical regions, and Arundinarieae, native to temperate regions. Bamboos are characterized by their stalks, which are generally hollow, lignified and fast-growing. Bamboos have adapted to many climates (tropical, subtropical and temperate) and are found naturally on every continent except Antarctica. There is a third tribe of Bambusoideae, the Olyreae, which includes herbaceous bamboos native to tropical regions of Latin America. Bamboo has been and continues to be widely used as an ornamental plant, food plant and building material (scaffolding).

History

Bamboo has a rich history of use across cultures and centuries. Its rapid growth and innate resilience were discovered centuries ago, leading to its integration into various aspects of daily life. Throughout history, various cultures, notably in Asia, South America and Africa, have recognized bamboo's attributes and exploited its qualities for construction, tools and utensils. From ancient China to the indigenous communities of South America, bamboo's resistance and availability have made it an indispensable resource. In contemporary contexts, bamboo's structural strength has found applications in modern architecture, while its flexibility lends itself to textiles and innovative products such as bicycles. Beyond its functional role, bamboo symbolizes resilience and growth, and is an integral part of cultures the world over.

Properties

Bamboo's properties make it a sought-after material. Its impressive strength-to-weight ratio exceeds that of many traditional woods, making it suitable for structural applications requiring durability. Resistant to pests and decay, bamboo products have an extended lifespan, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Its adaptability translates into a wide range of uses, from sturdy furniture to intricate flooring.

Ecological footprint

Bamboo is a highly sustainable resource thanks to its rapid growth, minimal water requirements and diverse applications in construction, textiles and other fields. Its ability to replenish itself rapidly, combined with its low need for pesticides and fertilizers, contributes to land restoration and the reduction of deforestation. The long-distance transport of bamboo products can offset its ecological attributes due to the associated emissions. In addition, some industrial treatments involving chemicals pose environmental problems. However, when grown and harvested responsibly, bamboo maintains a low ecological footprint. The results of the life-cycle analysis allow us to conclude that industrial bamboo products, if based on technological best practice, even when used in Europe, can in fact be labelled "CO2 neutral or better". When used in the country of production (China), the results are even more positive. This is because bamboo contains carbon that has been removed from the atmosphere during its growth. If the carbon contained in the cut trees does not return to the atmosphere but remains in the wood, while at the same time other trees begin to grow in place of those that have been cut, it therefore helps to remove CO2 from the atmosphere rather than adding to it. At the end of the product's life, wood can be used to replace fossil fuels. If not burned, the carbon contained in the wood would reach the atmosphere through decomposition without replacing fossil fuels.

Beech

Fagus sylvatica, the scientific name for beech, is a deciduous tree species.
It is a tree that is mainly found in temperate and humid forests, which are the dominant formation in Europe.
It is a large tree that can reach 30 to 35 metres in height on fairly fertile land. Its special feature is that it has a thin, smooth bark, which is only found in temperate European plants.
Its wood is naturally hard and varies in colour from a light yellow to pink.

History

Beech has been used in many different ways since ancient times.
From the 20th century onwards, it has been used to produce paper pulp by dissolving processes.
Apart from paper, beech is also used in carpentry to manufacture objects or kitchen utensils made of wood.
Furthermore, in industrial joinery, especially in cabinet making, beech is used for the production of furniture. This includes tables, beds, desks, storage furniture, and chairs, etc.

Properties

The most important characteristics of beech wood are its strength, hardness, easiness to work with and impregnate.

Ecological footprint

The use of beech as a building material can be considered as a “carbon sink”.
This means that the use of beech as a timber material can be attributed with having negative emissions. This is because beech contains carbon that has been removed from the atmosphere during its growth. If the carbon contained in the cut trees doesn’t return to the atmosphere but remains in the woodwork, while at the same time other trees start to grow in place of those that have been cut down, man is therefore helping to remove CO2 from the atmosphere instead of adding to it.

Bioplastic

There are two main categories of plastics: bioplastics (derived from biogenic raw materials) and fossil plastics (derived from petroleum-based materials). Bioplastics, innovative materials derived from renewable sources such as plant starch, sugarcane or algae, have emerged as a promising solution to the environmental challenges posed by conventional plastics.

History

Bioplastics have evolved from their origins in the early 20th century to become a versatile option in the modern era. Initially limited to niche applications such as biodegradable packaging, their potential has expanded considerably. Today, they're used in a whole range of products, from disposable cutlery to food packaging and electronics casings.

Properties

Bioplastics have properties similar to those of traditional plastics, but are distinguished by their renewable origin. Depending on their composition, bioplastics can feature characteristics such as flexibility, transparency and even biodegradability. Some bioplastics are designed to break down faster than their petroleum-based counterparts, offering potential solutions for reducing plastic waste in specific contexts. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of industries, from agriculture to medical applications.

Ecological footprint

Bioplastics are derived from renewable sources. However, their environmental impact is complex. While their production can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, it requires agricultural resources and energy, which can lead to habitat conversion and greenhouse gas emissions. Not all bioplastics are biodegradable, and improper disposal can lead to persistent pollution. In addition, their fragmentation into microplastics during degradation raises concerns for aquatic ecosystems. To maximize their benefits and minimize their negative consequences, responsible sourcing, better end-of-life management and enhanced biodegradability are essential for the sustainable use of bioplastics.

Cardboard, Paper, Cellulose

Cellulose is the most abundant organic molecule on earth: this natural homo-polymer is the main constituent of the cell walls of many plants and trees, with contents ranging from 15% to 99%. It is mainly used in the manufacture of paper and textiles. Cellulose is exceptionally found in an almost pure state in the cell walls of cotton seed hairs (nearly 95%), while its content in wood is 40-50%, 70% in hemp and 80% in flax, which explains the economic importance of these fibers.

History

Payen discovered cellulose in 1838, and its molecular formula was determined to be C6H10O5 by elemental analysis. The structure of this polymer is a linear syndiotactic homopolymer formed of D-anhydroglucopyranose units (AGU), which are linked by glycosidic bonds . Plants such as wood, hemp, cotton and flax are the main source of cellulose, which has been used as an energy source and building material for thousands of years. In addition, cellulose is produced by numerous micro-organisms such as fungi and bacteria, which have the same chemical composition as that studied by Brown in 1886. Over time, its usefulness has expanded to encompass a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, construction and advanced materials. The transformation of rudimentary textiles into complex nanomaterials underlines its adaptability and enduring relevance.

Properties

Cellulose's distinctive properties derive from its complex molecular structure, characterized by chains of glucose molecules. Its exceptional tensile strength, biodegradability and water absorption capacity make it a versatile material. In textiles, cellulose fibers offer breathability and comfort, while the emergence of nanocellulose has led to innovations in biocompatible electronics and sustainable packaging. The possibility of chemically modifying cellulose and integrating it with other materials further amplifies its potential applications.

Ecological footprint

Cellulose's ecological footprint encompasses a wide range of environmental considerations. Its extraction, particularly for paper production, has been linked to deforestation and energy-intensive processes. However, sustainable forestry practices, the incorporation of recycled cellulose and the use of agricultural by-products help to mitigate these impacts. While the biodegradability of cellulose holds promise for waste reduction, specific applications such as textile production involve chemical treatments that require meticulous management to avoid pollution. By championing responsible sourcing, optimizing extraction methods and adopting circular economy principles, cellulose can support a variety of industries while minimizing its overall environmental footprint.

Clay

A sedimentary rock that is often loose (clay), which, when soaked in water becomes a paste that can be moulded and then hardens when fired. Clay is a soft rock, a natural source of minerals, particularly alumina silicate, and trace elements such as iron, potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium. The main component of clay is silica, which is also one of the building blocks of human body tissue. Clays exist in different colours: green, white, pink, red, yellow, blue, etc. The two most well-known and used clays are green and white. The colour changes according to the iron content of the soil and in a white soil the iron has been dissolved.

History

In ancient Egypt, the use of clay was already a custom. It was used for the mummification of bodies. In those days, clay was also used in pharmacopoeia, as evidenced by the papyri that tell the story of mankind. Terracotta, ceramic, and even porcelain are nothing other than a clay which is worked differently. In a more ancestral way, the inhabitants of Mesopotamia used clay as a medium to write on and it also served as a basis for the manufacturing for objects such as kitchen utensils and is still widely used in pottery today.

Properties

Its main characteristics are: hygroscopic, permeable but breathable, excellent thermal inertia, easy to use and reversible, fire resistant, sound proofing... By nature, it also has many medicinal properties: absorbent, cleansing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, healing, softening and re-mineralising.

Ecological footprint

Clay is ecological. When used raw, its manufacturing requires ten times less energy than concrete (for an equivalent quantity). It is locally available everywhere. It is also renewable and recyclable.

Concrete

Concrete is made from a combination of materials, usually mineral in nature. It brings together inert materials, called aggregates (gravel, chippings, sand, etc.), and a binder (cement, bitumen, clay), i.e. a material that can be bound with other materials, as well as with additives that modify the physical and chemical properties of the mixture. Mixed with water, a paste is obtained of variable homogeneity, which can, depending on the material, be moulded in a workshop (artificial stone), or cast (artificial stone), or poured on site. The concrete then «sets» and solidifies.

History

Around the 1st century BC, Ancient Rome took up this technique and improved it with the incorporation of pozzolanic sand or crushed tiles. It creates a form of concrete that is extremely resistant, which can be seen by the many buildings built with this material that still stand. The technique of concrete, which spread in Roman Gaul, was still used in the early Middle Ages, and was democratised after the industrial revolution.

Properties

It has an evolutionary behaviour: at first it is fluid, which allows it to take on all possible shapes, then gradually becomes hard and very resistant. It is a material that appears rustic and simple but is in fact very complex and has many qualities: its mechanical strength, durability, fire resistance, thermal and acoustic insulation, and impact resistance.

Ecological footprint

Most of the energy consumption of concrete comes from energy-consuming activities that result in varying degrees of CO2: transport (oil derivatives for trucking concrete or raw materials); making (in the case of cement concrete, fuel oil or other fuel to bake the rock into cement); electricity consumption to mechanically mix large quantities of concrete. In the case of cement concrete, the perpetual search for suitable aggregates including sand has led to the over-exploitation of 75% of the world’s beaches, destroying many coastal ecosystems.

Cork

Cork is an agricultural product and a cellular material, present in the bark of some trees, notably in cork oak. It protects the tree from insects, cold and bad weather while allowing it to breathe through thin channels that are named lenticels. The cork oak tree is a carbon sink that is all the more effective because the tree is used to produce cork.

History

Artifacts of objects made of cork dating back to 3000 BC have been found in China, Egypt, Babylon and Persia. In Italy, among the ancient remains dating from the 4th century BC, objects made of cork such as buoys, bungs for sealing barrels, women’s shoes and pieces of roofing have been discovered. Since then, more than 80% of the world’s cork production has been used to make wine stoppers.

Properties

Cork is a low density, antistatic, flexible, thermal, acoustic and vibratory insulator. Cork is fire resistant, floats in water and decomposes slowly.

Ecological footprint

In addition to being entirely natural and contributing to the preservation of a myriad of species, the extraction of cork requires very little processing. The ecological footprint from extraction to the final product is incredibly small. The reason for such a small ecological footprint lies in of cork’s qualities: it is both recyclable and biodegradable. This means that even during the manufacturing process cork waste is reused and crushed to make agglomerated cork products, which will never be wasted. The cork powder and other chemical components removed during processing can also be recovered, as can fuel sources and by-products.

Cotton

Cotton is a plant fibre that surrounds the seeds of the «true» cotton plants, shrubs of the Malvaceae family. This fibre, which consists of almost pure cellulose, is usually processed into yarn that is woven into fabrics. Cotton is the most widely produced natural fibre in the world, and mainly comes from China and India. Since the 19th century, it has been the world’s most important textile fibre (almost half of the world’s textile fibre consumption), thanks to advances in industrialisation and agronomy.

History

Cotton has been used to make lightweight clothing for thousands of years in tropical climates. Fragments of cotton have been found dating from 7,000 years ago in caves in the Tehuacán Valley, Mexico. The cotton trade accross the world has contributed to economical globalisation. While the United States remains the world’s largest exporter of cotton, in 2012/13 the Chinese cotton industry began to increase amongst the world’s cotton markets, with Chinese reserves accounting for 63% of global stocks.

Properties

Thus the main characteristics of cotton are: its absorbency - cotton fibres can absorb about 8.5% of their weight in water and insulation - scratching the fabric makes its surface fluffy. It retains the air that comes into contact with the body and helps us to «keep warm». It is also an inexpensive, soft, comfortable and hypoallergenic material.

Ecological footprint

Cotton has a heavy environmental impact for several reasons : The cotton plant is cultivated using a lot of fertilisers, pesticides and insecticides. The figures are staggering: according to the WHO, cotton cultivation occupies 3% of the world’s cultivated areas, but consumes 25% of the insecticides used in the world. Cotton is a plant that consumes a lot of water, about 10,000 litres are used to produce 1kg of cotton. Roughly 2,500 litres are needed for a t-shirt to provide irrigation water for the intensive cultivation of cotton.

Fir

Firs are coniferous trees of the genus Abies, native to temperate or cold regions of the northern hemisphere. They belong to the Pinaceae family, are evergreen and their trunks are resinous. They are recognisable from the way the needles are attached to the stem and by their upright cones that disintegrate at maturity. In absolute terms, the longevity of the fir can be up to 700 years.

History

Fir has always been used for carpentry but also for shipbuilding and the fabrication of railway sleepers, hydraulic work or decorative veneer. It was in the 12th century that the fir tradition appeared in Europe, more precisely in Alsace, France where it is mentioned for the first time as a «Christmas tree» around 1521. In 1738 that Marie Leszczynska, the wife of Louis XV, King of France, installed a Christmas tree in the Château de Versailles.

Properties

The main characteristic of the fir tree is its very high mechanical strength. It is also recognised as having numerous medicinal properties: antispasmodic antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, healing and calming...

Ecological footprint

It is possible to consider that the use of fir as a building material creates a «carbon sink», i.e. the use of fir as a timber can be attributed with having negative emissions. This is because fir contains carbon that has been removed from the atmosphere during its growth. If the carbon contained in the cut trees does not return to the atmosphere but remains in the woodwork, while at the same time other trees start to grow in place of those that have been cut down, man is therefore helping to remove CO2 from the atmosphere instead of adding to it.

Flax

Cultivated flax (Linum usitatissimum) is a species of dicotyledonous plant from the Linaceae family, native to Eurasia. It is an annual herbaceous plant widely cultivated for its textile fibres and oil seeds. This cultivated flax is very different from its ancestors, and is a species with indehiscent capsules, that don’t open spontaneously when mature, that allow the seeds to be harvested. These seeds are larger and richer in fat content or have long stems with a high proportion of long fibres. Depending on what they are cultivated for, production involves varieties where the main use is from the fibres and others from the seeds.

History

Flax is historically one of the first cultivated species. The oldest fibres in the world are believed to be twisted and dyed flax fibres found in the Dzudzuana cave in Georgia, dating back 36,000 years, well before the beginning of agriculture in the Neolithic period. From the beginning of the Dynastic period, flax appeared as one of the main seed crops (along with starchy wheat, barley, lentils and peas). The use of flax began to develop: its production, which dates from more than 6,000 years ago, was used to make clothes, funeral cloths, boat sails, ropes and nets. The seeds were consumed for their nutritional qualities. The retting, spinning and weaving of flax are splendidly illustrated on tomb paintings and papyrus.

Properties

Flax is hypoallergenic, antifungal and antibacterial. It is also recognised for its nutritional and medicinal qualities (extremely rich in fibre, fatty acids and numerous vitamins, it is considered to have remineralising powers for the body).

Ecological footprint

Flax contributes to sustainable agriculture as its cultivation requires little nitrogen and therefore does not cause nitrate pollution. It does not require irrigation and grows well with little or no pesticides. Better still, flax is a «zero waste» plant, which can be fully recovered. As the plant is entirely biodegradable, the products made from flax are therefore, in turn, also biodegradable.

Gouache

Gouache (from the Italian guazzo) is a water-based paint, like watercolour, but is opaque and covers the paper. The binder or solvent used for this paint is traditionally gummed water (gum arabic) and it is diluted with water. Gouache is therefore a tempera paint. As with all artistic techniques or mediums, the word gouache refers to both the material (paint) and the result.

History

The term «gouache» first appeared as a name for a painting in the 16th century and comes from the Italian «guazzo», a derivative of the Latin aquatio (literally: a place where water is found) and means a flooded land, a swamp or a pond (according to F. Perego). The term «Tempera» is sometimes wrongly used for gouache, as tempera colours which are made from egg yolk have very different and specific characteristics. Gouache is the «ancestor», if one can say so, of the «Moist Colours»; the name used for watercolours from the 19th century until the 1950s (at that time the term «watercolour» referred to the work produced). It is used by Matisse in his famous «gouaches découpées». The artist covered large sheets of paper with gouache (in his usual colour range). These painted sheets were then cut out, assembled and finally glued together.

Properties

The main characteristics of gouache are: opaque and matt colours, brightness of shades and reversibility, and of course its natural formula.

Ecological footprint

Gouache is a totally biodegradable material and is 100% natural.

Hemp

Industrial, textile or agricultural hemp is a subspecies of plants of the cannabis sativa, from the family Cannabinaceae. The term «hemp» also refers metonymically to the textile fibre obtained from this plant. Industrial hemp has many uses, such as for fabrics, construction, cosmetics sound and heat insulation, the manufacture of oils, ropes and thermal insulation, and is also used as fuel, paper, food, feed, biofuels, medicinal uses, recreational use or as composite materials in combination with plastics.

History

Hemp was one of the first plants to be domesticated by humans in the Neolithic times, probably in Asia. Its fibres were used to make clothes in China 600 years BC and in Europe in the Middle Ages. Western royal garments were often made from mixtures of hemp and linen. The first Bible printed by Gutenberg is said to have been printed on hemp paper. At the beginning of the 20th century, hemp fibres were replaced in Europe by cotton, which originated in the United States. For a long time, the fibres were used to make banknotes before being replaced by nettle.

Properties

Hemp is a completely natural material. It is strong and durable, insulating and environmentally friendly. It also has excellent nutritional and medicinal qualities.

Ecological footprint

Hemp grows by itself, without GMOs or pesticides. It is a plant that grows easily and is not exposed to diseases. The low water requirement makes it particularly profitable to grow. Hemp helps to preserve the soil and makes the work of farmers easier. It can grow up to five metres high, smothering weeds and preventing them from growing. This plant leaves the soil clean and ready for further planting. The roots go so deep that they make it soft and therefore easier to cultivate. Hemp is a «zero waste» plant, which can be fully recovered. The plant is entirely biodegradable, so the products made from the hemp plant will biodegradable in turn.

Latex

Latex is an elastic material created by the transformation of a vegetable juice which is produced by the rubber tree. Latex is different from sap, which distributes water, mineral salts or sugars, whereas the former is more involved in the natural defence mechanisms of the plant. It circulates in a separate network distinct from that of the vessels: the laticifers. Like resin, it oozes out when the plant is wounded and dries to form a protective barrier. Latex is also found in banana trees and many other plants, but only rubber latex has the qualities required for industrial use.

History

As early as the 19th century, attempts were made to control the coagulation of the rubber tree. In 1929, it was found that natural polymerisation could be initiated by bacteria. From then on, 90% of natural latex production was used for the production of tyres which were filled with carbon black. These tyres are used, for example, in the aerospace and automotive industries. The elasticity of natural latex makes it a popular material in the medical field and in everyday life, as well as in the production of bedding (mattresses and pillows). World production of latex is estimated at around 9.7 million tonnes, of which three countries, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, account for almost three quarters of the total, with Asia producing 95%.

Properties

Due to its distinct qualities, latex is an irreplaceable product for many of its uses, as it is sticky (as long as it is not vulcanised), bouncy, flexible, very strong, and can be stretched almost at will!

Ecological footprint

Rubber plantations are carbon sinks: a one-hectare plantation «captures» 250 tonnes of carbon in 30 years». Moreover, at the end of its life, the rubber tree, a good quality wood, can be used to manufacture furniture. Natural rubber production supports 30 million people worldwide and 85% of production comes from small-scale producers.

Lime

It is a mineral powder and is the result of firing limestone at a high temperature of between 900 and 1200° C. Once fired, the stones, which are transformed into «quick» lime, are slaked and then finely ground. Lime has various advantages and can be used for several purposes. It has two main uses: mortar for rendering and exterior joints. This material is used for the masonry of old stones in reinforcement grouting or slab sealing. Its second use is for decoration, in the form of rendering paint or whitewash for decoration.

History

The use of lime dates back to 9000 BC, and the first known use of lime dates back to the epipaleolithic period in the Middle East, where it was used as a glue to make small tools. To date, its use has been distributed approximately as follows :
Iron and steel industry: approx. 30%
Public works, roads, paths: approx. 23%
Agriculture: approx. 10%
Water treatment: approx. 10%
Construction, building: approx. 3%
Carbon dioxide absorption: anaesthesia and emergency breathing equipment.
Food.

Properties

The advantages of lime are :
an antiseptic, it disinfects and purifies the atmosphere, lets masonry breathe thus reducing humidity and avoids water condensation. Its decorative effect is exceptional, notably from its unique velvety texture inside as well as outside. A lime decoration is «alive» : the material breathes and its mottling varies according to the ambient hygrometry. Finally, it has a surface patina and ages extremely well.

Ecological footprint

No solvent, no biocide, no VOCs, aerial or hydraulic lime in its pure state is undeniably a healthy product.

Loofah

Loofah is known as vegetable sponge or loofah fabric. It is obtained from the dried, ripe fruits of the Luffa genus, which comprises six species of the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly grown in the tropics. Luffa sponge is a cheap, abundant and renewable organic resource. As a lignocellulosic material, it is naturally hydrophilic. This natural material offers a wide range of applications thanks to its unique composition and natural porous support.

History

The loofah's historical roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations who recognized its practical uses. Cultures such as ancient Egypt and various Asian societies used loofah for its natural scrubbing abilities, making it a preferred choice for cleansing and exfoliation. In traditional practices, loofah was also used for medicinal purposes. In the contemporary context, loofah applications have developed remarkably. From bath and skin care products, such as exfoliating sponges, to cleaning and oil/water separation tools (petroleum-derived or not) for low-cost, reusable, abundant drinking water purification.

Properties

Loofah is a natural, sustainable, abundant and inexpensive resource. The loofah's fibrous structure enables gentle exfoliation, making it a preferred material for personal care items that require effective but non-abrasive scrubbing. In addition to its exfoliating qualities, loofah has excellent absorption capacity thanks to its porous structure, as well as outstanding biodegradability. Its adaptability transcends personal care; in agriculture, loofah serves as a natural, long-lasting support for plants

Ecological footprint

Loofah's ecological footprint offers several notable advantages. Its inherent biodegradability, which stems from its plant origin, helps reduce plastic waste in various sectors. Growing loofah requires less water and fewer chemical inputs than synthetic alternatives, reinforcing its ecological credentials. However, responsible sourcing practices are essential to ensure sustainable growth and minimize the use of pesticides. In addition, the carbon footprint associated with long transport distances must be taken into account to fully optimize the positive environmental impact of loofah.

Metal

In chemistry, metals are materials whose atoms are joined by metallic bonds. They are simple bodies or alloys that are usually hard, opaque, shiny and good conductors of heat and electricity. They are generally malleable, i.e. they can be hammered or pressed to change their shape when heated without cracking or breaking them. Many substances that are not classified as metallic but at atmospheric pressure can acquire metallic properties when subjected to high forms of pressure. Metals have many common uses, and their consumption has increased dramatically since the 1980s, to the extent that some of them have become critical mineral raw materials.

History

The development of industries such as electronics, information and communication technologies, and aeronautics, and the drive for efficiency and effectiveness, have led to an unprecedented increase in the production and consumption of metals. The growth period from 1990 to 2010 led to doubling the production of the main metals. While in the 1970s, less than 20 metals were used in the Mendeleyev table, around 60 metals have been in use since the 2000s.

Properties

Its properties are electrical and thermal conductivity, magnetism, its mechanical properties (elastic deformation) and its oxidising power.

Ecological footprint

Unlike organic compounds, metals are not biodegradable by micro-organisms. Indeed, the fate of metals in the environment poses analytical challenges; metals are found in several forms in soil and water (mixed in with organic soil matter, minerals, and free ions, etc.) making the predictions of toxicity and ecotoxicity more complicated. To get from the mine to a shaped object, one has to go through multiple steps that use energy-consuming equipment. In their natural environment almost all metals are in the form of oxides or sulphides. To transform them into their metallic form, energy is needed to break the corresponding chemical bonds. The total energy consumption for the production of raw metals is therefore 10% of the world’s primary energy. Steel and aluminium account for the largest share.

Mycelium

Mycelium (PL: mycelia) is a fungal root structure consisting of a mass of branched, filiform hyphae. Fungal colonies composed of mycelium are found in and on soil and many other substrates. Through the mycelium, a fungus absorbs nutrients from its environment. It does so in two stages. Firstly, the hyphae secrete enzymes on or in the food source, which break down biological polymers into smaller units, such as monomers. These monomers are then absorbed by the mycelium through facilitated diffusion and active transport. This natural growth structure of fungi has attracted attention for its unique characteristics and potential applications in various industries, offering an environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional materials.

History

Historically, mycelium has been used in mushroom cultivation and traditional medicine practices. In recent years, its applications have expanded considerably. By exploiting its modes of growth, mycelium can be cultivated in a variety of forms, from packaging materials to architectural components. This adaptability has encouraged its integration into sustainable design, offering innovative solutions in fields such as construction and consumer products.

Properties

The properties of mycelium derive from its complex structure and growth behavior. Under controlled conditions, mycelium can be oriented to form robust structures, with qualities such as lightness and thermal insulation. Its natural adhesive properties enable it to bind to a variety of substrates, transforming agricultural waste into robust composites. This adaptability and ability to take on a variety of forms make mycelium an ideal candidate for customizable, durable designs, with inherent fire resistance and acoustic benefits.

Ecological footprint

Mycelium's ecological footprint is characterized by its sustainable cultivation and end-of-life benefits. It can be grown using agricultural by-products, converting organic waste into valuable materials. The cultivation process requires minimal resources and can be carried out without generating significant waste. The biodegradability of mycelium is a major advantage, ensuring minimal environmental impact at the end of its life cycle. However, there are still challenges to be overcome, such as establishing consistent production methods and scaling up the technology.total energy consumption for the production of raw metals is then 10% of the world's primary energy. Steel and aluminium account for the largest share.

Raw earth

Raw earth, or earth material, is the term given to earth that is fabricated by a limited process to create a material. The term ‘raw earth’ is mainly used to distinguish it from fired clay. In construction, there are many terms, but they all refer to a basic material consisting of a paste or mud containing more or less clay or limestone clay or silt - what the ancients called «terre franche» - possibly degreased with sand and fibred with hay, straw or other vegetable fibres, and mixed with various elements that modify its properties. This material is used as a mortar or is applied as a plaster and is used as a filling for a framework; it is sometimes stacked, manipulated by hand, cut or modelled in the form of mud bricks or simply trodden on the ground (rammed earth).

History

Many sculptures have been made from raw or dried earth. The Greco-Buddhist art in Gandhara and the oasis of Xinjiang, known as Serindian art, made numerous Buddhist sculptures in this way. It is also the material used for martial figures that were guardians, protectors of the Buddha and Buddhist Law in Japan during the Nara period. French artists, especially in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, carefully preserved this condition in some of their sculptures. Raw earth has been used in construction for thousands of years and about 30% of the world’s population live in earthen structures, especially in developing countries.

Properties

Non-combustible, it is a healthy material that has no impact on health, with excellent thermal inertia. It is also known for its remarkable regulating humidity in the air and its soundproofing qualities.

Ecological footprint

Raw earth is a local, abundant and infinitely recyclable resource. It requires very little water during the processing phase and uses only 3% of the energy used when constructing in concrete!

Vinyl gum

Gums are generally made up of three substances: vulcanised rubber, vegetable oil and fillers to adjust the finish of the surface, abrasiveness and to colour the material. Today, many soft, non-abrasive erasers are made of vinyl or other white plastics. Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride, known as PVC 10 , is a widely used thermoplastic amorphous or low crystalline thermoplastic polymer, the main representative of the chloropolymer family. It is prepared from two raw materials: 57% sea salt (NaCl) and 43% petroleum; it is the only plastic that is made from more than 50% raw materials of mineral origins.

History

Until the second half of the 20th century, gum was made of natural rubber. Then came the «Trente Glorieuses» and with them the rise of plastics. Natural rubber was gradually replaced by a synthetic one, a type of plastic. This was then replaced by vinyl or polyvinyl chloride plastic, which is polyvinyl chloride, i.e. PVC.

Properties

Vinyl rubber is characterised by its elasticity and its aesthetic, playful and cheerful appearance.

Ecological footprint

Vinyl gum is 43% polyvinyl chloride (PVC), «one of the most polluting raw materials to saturate our planet» according to Greenpeace. More commonly known as a polymer, this plastic is melted down in vinyl factories before being pressed between two dyes.

Wicker, Rattan

Rattan, a versatile natural material derived from climbing palms, embodies a unique blend of strength, flexibility and aesthetic appeal. Its historical significance and sustainable attributes make it a sought-after resource in a variety of industries. Beyond its material qualities, rattan's potential to sequester carbon as it grows adds a further layer to its environmental value.

History

The historical use of rattan spans cultures and centuries. In ancient societies, rattan was used to make furniture, baskets and various utensils. In modern times, rattan retains its appeal in furniture making, interior design and fashion accessories. Its enduring popularity is due to its ability to bridge the gap between traditional and modern design preferences.

Properties

Rattan's inherent properties derive from its organic origin and growth methods. Its fine yet robust stems facilitate complex weaving, resulting in products that combine lightness and durability. Rattan furniture blends rustic aesthetics with functional comfort, making it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor use. Its porous structure promotes breathability, contributing to versatile, climate-appropriate applications.

Ecological footprint

Rattan, a versatile material derived from climbing palms, has a multi-faceted environmental impact. Its resource-efficient growth and potential for carbon sequestration during maturation underline its sustainability. However, unsustainable harvesting practices can lead to habitat disturbance and loss, while chemical treatments present pollution risks. Balancing these aspects with responsible harvesting, environmentally-friendly treatments and efficient production methods is essential to maximize rattan's positive contributions while mitigating its environmental problems.

Wool

Wool, a natural fiber extracted from the fleece of sheep and other animals such as goats (cashmere and mohair), alpacas and rabbits (angora), is a versatile material with a rich history. Its unique combination of warmth, breathability and durability has secured it a place in a wide range of applications, from garments and textiles to home furnishings.

History

Wool's historical importance dates back several millennia, with evidence of its use in clothing found in ancient civilizations. Its insulating properties made it an essential element of protection against the elements. Today, wool's adaptability has enabled it to be used in a variety of sectors, including high-end fashion, sportswear, bedding and carpets.

Properties

Wool's properties are linked to its structure. The corrugated fibers create air pockets that trap heat, making it an excellent insulator. The same structure gives wool its ability to wick away moisture, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. What's more, wool's natural elasticity and resistance to wrinkling enable garments and products to retain their shape and appearance over time. Its inherent flame resistance adds to its safety attributes, making it suitable for both residential and industrial use.

Ecological footprint

Wool's ecological footprint is tempered by its inherent sustainability and the potential challenges associated with its production. Sheep farming can promote biodiversity and help maintain grasslands when managed responsibly. The carbon footprint of most woollen garments is largely due to how often we wear them and how often we wash them. The raw product accounts for only 30% of the carbon footprint, most of which is attributable to our use practices. Methane emissions from sheep, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, are also a cause for concern. To mitigate these effects, it is imperative to adopt sustainable practices such as rotational grazing, reduced use of chemicals and efficient processing methods. By adopting these measures, wool's positive environmental qualities can be maintained, reinforcing its role as a renewable and versatile material whose environmental impact is relatively lower than that of synthetic products.