# Crafted material: Bio-fan

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/AXqtsg0cJKM>" %}

For the crafted material, I designed a **bio-fan**, combining biopolymers and 3D printing to create a functional and nature-inspired object. The fan's blades were personalized to resemble leaves, 3D-printed with golden PLA for a refined aesthetic. The fabric was crafted from **alginate**, a biomaterial I made using a recipe from class with some modifications.

To make the alginate fabric, I increased the concentration of alginate and glycerin for improved strength and flexibility. My final recipe included:

* **400 ml of water**
* **14 g of alginate**
* **26 g of glycerin**

Additionally, I added **spirulina** for a green tint and **golden mica powder** for a shimmering effect. Before pouring the mixture into a fabric-stretched frame, I sprayed calcium chloride to ensure proper gelation, spread the mixture evenly, and sprayed again to solidify it. After letting it dry for a few days, I carefully removed it from the mold.

The result was a vibrant green material with a golden shine that was flexible, resistant, and adhered well to silicone glue when attaching it to the fan blades. The fan was both functional and visually striking.

**Areas for improvement:**

* I would make the alginate layer thinner to reduce the fan's overall weight.
* I would experiment with additives to reduce the unpleasant odor of the alginate.

<div><figure><img src="/files/IVuy8yaB0nmStuLloT4D" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/xrdajqPg5EHgn4Gm2hHO" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### Other tryouts&#x20;

<div><figure><img src="/files/fwyPUTVk3rvUlu16tpjI" alt=""><figcaption><p>My hair + alginate</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/vxnNxRmecU6zuZRNgvls" alt=""><figcaption><p>Rigid gelatine</p></figcaption></figure></div>


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