Celebrating Two Decades of Innovation: Transforming Waste Glass into Architectural Marvels
BA Product Design Exhibition 2004
It is 20 years since I graduated with a bachelor's degree in Product Design. Reflecting on my journey, I stumbled over a gap in knowledge regarding the use of waste bottle glass in fusion processes. At the time, every glass professional I encountered insisted that such fusion was impossible due to compatibility issues between different bottles.
Undeterred by these doubts, I made this very question the core of my PhD proposal and remarkably was able to transition directly from my BA to doctoral research, bypassing the master's degree entirely. By 2009, I had completed my PhD, having explored and proven the viability of fusing waste glass bottles into a beautiful and strong material.
Although I was eager to launch my business then, it wasn't until 2017 that I felt the market was truly ready to appreciate and accept the concept of transforming waste materials into high-end, luxurious products made from fused recycled glass.
The BA that became the PhD proposal. 2004
Today, I am on route to the Society of Glass Technology conference to present my most significant commission to date. This project involved transforming 1.5 tonnes of glass bottles into external cladding tiles for the Buttermarket in Redruth Cornwall, a Grade II listed building. This achievement not only underscores the potential of recycled glass in architectural applications but also serves as a testament to the progress and acceptance of sustainable design solutions.
As I prepare for my presentation, I want to express my gratitude to those who have supported me throughout my journey. Firstly, I would like to thank Rod Bender at Innovative Glass Product (IGP). His extensive knowledge in architectural glass and business has been instrumental in my startup and its growth.
20 Year since first making fused recycled glass
Steve Whettingsteel, Keeley McConnell and Katrina Day for the excellent glass crusher enabling me to take on this huge commission.
I am also grateful to Kelvin Donne, who was my PhD supervisor, but also played a pivotal role recently in securing funding from Swansea University through AgorIP, enabling me to conduct extensive material testing.
Additionally, I appreciate the support from Wrexham Glyndwr University and Aberystwyth University. Their collaboration through knowledge transfer facilitated environmental cycling tests and prepared my work for publication.
Lastly, the project's life cycle analysis, conducted at Future Homes as part of an Innovate UK-backed initiative at Salford University, has been invaluable.
Thank you all for your unwavering support.
I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the future. The journey from a questioning undergraduate to an innovative glass designer and technologist has been long and challenging but immensely rewarding. I am excited to share my experiences and continue advocating for innovative, sustainable practices in glass technology.
