May 14-17, 2011
Jacob Javits Convention Center, Booth 1780
655 West 34th Street
New York, NY

Recyclable Composites showcases innovative applications of advanced composites in new contexts. Existing composites rely heavily on irreversible resins, which cannot be recycled. Twintex®, a commingled glass and thermoplastic polypropylene fiber filament, is solidified by a reversible heat treatment. Twintex® products are thermoplastic composites which can be recycled. Therefore, they present an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional composites.

Through a rigorous developmental research process, students explored the material Twintex® beyond its conventional use to create dynamic furniture and lighting fixtures. These explorations, while highlighting the potential of recyclable composites, are pushing the boundaries of both design and customary manufacturing techniques. Recyclable Composites manifests the Furniture Design Department’s commitment to research, innovation and sustainability as key pedagogical areas of focus.

The Department of Furniture Design educates students in a broad range of design study areas delineated as F.O.R.M. — furniture, objects, research and materials. Students develop their conceptual and realization abilities through designing and building in real materials and scale. Through our sequenced curriculum, students investigate emerging challenges that technologies, materials, economic and ecologic conditions and changes in societal patterns present to this generation of designers and makers.

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is an international leader in art and design education. Founded in 1877, RISD includes the College and the Museum of Art, which houses a world-class collection of works spanning from ancient times to the present. Degree offerings include 16 undergraduate and 17 graduate programs in fine arts, architecture, design and art education. Approximately 2300 students and 350 faculty and curators comprise a community drawn from more than 44 countries. RISD’s philosophy embraces art and design research as central to the best interests of a global society.

ProjectLeader: Lothar Windels, Assistant Professor
Exhibition made possible through the generous support of Klinger Engineering, Whately, Massachusetts and Owens Corning