|Digital Matter
|Beyond Cork
Chitosan as the future of water filtration system
|Team
Lais Ioanna Margiori, Gautam Vohra, Ekaterina Starovoitova, Patricia Sveceny
|Faculty
Areti Markopoulou, Nikol Kirova, Daniil Koshelyuk
|Project year
2023-24
Traditionally, the cork industry has relied on synthetic binders and utilized cork in orthogonal applications, such as flooring and insulation due to its unique properties of lightness, durability, and acoustic performance. What strategies can be employed to develop a material system that enhances cork’s geometric versatility while optimizing its potential for recyclability? Driven by this question, this research focuses on fully exploring and expanding cork’s potential, through a new material system that leverages binder-free thermo-pressed cork combined with post-tensioning techniques.
By eliminating the need for synthetic binders, the material retains its natural properties, enhancing recyclability.
The integration of post-tensioning further amplifies cork’s load-bearing capacity, opening up new possibilities for cork in architectural and construction contexts, from facades to self-supporting structures.
The post-tensioning process involves threading cables through ducts in the modules, tightening them with turnbuckles, and anchoring the tensioned cables to compress the cork. This compression increases the material’s strength and durability, making it suitable for curved geometries. This system further incorporates interlocking tetrahedral modules to maximize cork’s structural potential. To optimize the performance of curved geometries, both single and doubly curved structures were explored. For single curves, parameters such as minimizing volume-to-constraint ratios, achieving uniform curvature, and reducing the total block count were prioritized. In doubly curved geometries, the focus shifted to maintaining consistent curvature while adjusting global constraints and block usage for efficiency.
Topological Interlocking
Single Curved Assemblages
Optimization of Single Curved Assemblages
Doubly Curved Assemblages
Optimization of Doubly Curved Assemblages
Global Geometries
Global Geometries
The research demonstrates cork’s adaptability across diverse applications, including partitions, pods, and freestanding structures, highlighting its geometric and functional versatility.
The final prototype composed of post-tensioned tetrahedral blocks to create an acoustically optimized partition wall. In order to provide accuracy, precision and automation in the fabrication process integrated a robotic arm to cut and drill thermo-pressed cork panels.
The project envisions empowering end users by providing a comprehensive assembly kit, enabling a DIY approach to sustainable construction. Each kit includes pre-cut cork panels, post-tensioning cables, turnbuckles, and other necessary hardware, alongside a simple assembly manual. This manual outlines step-by-step instructions for constructing the desired structure, ensuring accessibility even for individuals with limited construction experience. By offering this pre-fabricated and easy-to-assemble system, the project democratizes access to sustainable and customizable architectural solutions, helping individuals to actively participate in adaptive structures for their specific needs.
Auditorium
Indoor Exhibition
