Sculpting Sustainable Bioresin

The majority of artists’ materials contain chemically toxic, non-recyclable plastics with damaging effects on human health and the environment. For example, petroleum resins, used for casting and laminating, break down into microplastics containing endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. Our goal is to engineer a novel bioresin suitable for sculptural applications as an alternative to petroleum resin by employing chitosan and hagfish slime fibers. The target material should be optically clear, strong, hydrophobic and versatile while being sustainable; notably it should be non-toxic, bio-based, and compostable in marine environments. Using standard tests to perform in a studio setting without expensive instruments, we first optimize methods to quantitatively measure viscosity, optical characteristics, and mechanical material properties. Through this process, we also establish methods of data analysis adapted to the chitosan-based materials under study. In the second stage, we use these tests to assess the effects of chitosan suppliers, multiple concentrations, different crosslinkers, and hagfish slime fibers to understand which variables improve properties for our bioresin. The outcomes of this project will not only serve as a model for artists to innovate with environmentally conscious materials, but also contribute to the larger goal of creating sustainable, compostable, and bio-derived materials.