This pot, originally conceived as a decorative piece for plants, has evolved through a fascinating process of experimentation and discovery. With the goal of merging aesthetics with functionality, we initiated the project with a blend of crushed limestone powder and sodium alginate, aiming to create a pot that not only was visually appealing but also served as a natural habitat for plants. The result led to a wide range of experimentation.
However, reality proved to be more complex than we had imagined. Unfortunately, after water tests, it was found that the pot couldn't hold its integrity even for a single day. This (anticipated) limitation marked the path of a rich and valuable learning process, leading us to reevaluate the viability of the materials used.
The use of the 3D printer, initially considered for this creation, turned out to be an insurmountable challenge for the specific blend of crushed limestone powder and sodium alginate. This technical complexity prompted an adaptation of our initial vision, understanding that the 3D printing process was not feasible for this particular combination of materials.
Despite the difficulties, the Ecoshell project is not considered a failure but rather an opportunity to learn and grow. The knowledge gained about the properties of materials, their limitations, and the workings of the 3D printer has been invaluable. Thus, despite not achieving the desired functional pot, we carry with us the accumulated experience and enthusiasm for future explorations at the intersection of technology and sustainability.
