Harvesting Microplastics from the Air We Breathe
Using design to capture microplastic pollution, through the creation of a recyclable ceramic that absorbs the particulates from air
Microplastics are formed by the decay and shredding of plastics. Smaller than 5nm [nano meters], the particulates float in the wind, carrying harmful toxins. Human exposure is believed to cause cancer, psychosis, and lung damage. Around 15 trillion microplastics pollute worldwide waters, with 35% deriving from synthetic textiles. The average human consumes up to 70,000 particles a year, equal to a credit card a week.
Plastic production doubles every decade. EU regulations aim to curb industrial use of some polymer chemicals. This however will not reduce the current stream of microplastics in the environment. More prudent methods are needed to reduce microplastics, such as tougher regulation and public awareness.
Microplastics have been found in the placentas of unborn babies and also in bees. Recent studies have discovered behavioural changes to be at least one of the detrimental effects. Due to the lack of awareness on this issue, research has found that the majority of the public are disassociated and unsure of the consequences of microplastics.
This project explores whether the impossible can be made possible. It exposes the unseen. It takes a current issue, viewed as distant, and communicates it to the public as a real-time solution. It designs a concept to capture microplastics from the environment through the development of a novel porous clay crafted into a parametric façade. Placed in public spaces, the structure purposely attracts and filters the particulates from the air, intercepting microplastics before they disrupt ecosystems.
The design engages the public to visualise microplastics and imagine their catastrophic consequences. It reframes the complex subject and communicates the problem to audiences by using design as a form of empirical representation.
The microplastics captured will provide two secondary materials. An afterlife textile is made by mechanically removing large formations of the pollution, cleaning and weaving into shred resistant fabric. A second glossy, hard material suitable for interior design is also possible by re-firing the modular structure or reusing the particulate embedded clay for a new ceramic.
Working with the plastic industry and commercial sectors, this project will also collect microplastics from industrial air filtration systems. It will recycle the filters for textile use, preventing environmental leaching of airborne plastics.
Falilat Omodudu
falilatomodudu.net
falilat.omodudu@gmail.com