Amplituhedron: A bio-melanin fibre synthesized from soil bacteria for the design of innovative sustainable garments

Abstract

This study investigated the use of soil to create a substitute textile material in Thailand. It aims to maximise the utilisation of natural resources in response to climate change, thus promoting the concept of living in harmony with nature. A bio-fibre was synthesised from soil bacteria, ensuring that the whole production cycle generated no waste. To highlight the idea of the connection to life cycles, the design incorporated amplituhedrons, patterns of scattered quantum particles, representing the dynamics of cells, which often symbolise the smallest units of life. The final material contained melanin pigments similar to human skin tones, with hues comparable to those of people from Thailand. The proposed technology has applications in fashion design, where it can enhance the aesthetics and self-esteem of individuals. Further, this research can help advance Thailand’s national sustainable development, driving creativity through scientific innovation.

Keywords:

• Soil
• melanin
• textile substitute
• bio-fibres
• sustainable production
• Thailand

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for the support from the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Design at the Faculty of Decorative Arts, Silpakorn University, and the constructive feedback from the reviewers of the Journal.

Author contributions

A. directed to the design, made the simulations, and implementation of the research, to the analysis of the results. A*. developed the theoretical framework, supervised the project and wrote the paper in discussions with A. All authors discussed the results and contributed to the final manuscript.

Disclosure statement

This research is sponsored by Thai Wacoal Public Company Limited Partnership, Bangkok, Thailand and may lead to the development of products which may be licensed to the Doctor of Philosophy (Program in Design), Faculty of Decorative Arts, Silpakorn University, in which I am employed. I have disclosed these interests fully to Taylor and Francis and have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts arising from this arrangement.

Data availability statement

All data generated or analysed during this study are included in this published article.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Design, Silpakorn University Research Funding, and the Principal Investigator, and was funded by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).

Notes on contributors

Khajornsak Nakpan

Khajornsak Nakpan, PhD innovative fashion designer who specialises in generating knowledge about creative design, colour theory, and computer graphics. Combining his diverse ability and skill renders uniqueness to Khajornsak’s work. He focuses on the aesthetics of modern art, especially conceptual art. He is also interested in research methodology and process. His work, therefore, demonstrates different aesthetic dimensions through the lens of adaptive science.

Supavee Sirinkraporn

Supavee Sirinkraporn has been a full-time lecturer in the Department of Jewellery Design at Silpakorn University, Bangkok, since 1996, and is now an associate professor. Her first degree was in ceramics from Silpakorn University. She went on to study at Central Saint Martins in England and earned her Master of Arts from the Royal College of Art (1999). She earned her Doctor of Philosophy from BIAD with the subject ‘Jewellery Making as an Aid to Communicating with Deaf Children in Thailand’ (2004).