Browsing by Author "Kane, F"

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Exploring a place-based approach to developing new materials for sustainable futures: Natural fibre composites in New Zealand
(Loughborough University, 2020) Kane, F; Ruka, T; Kilford, A; Le-Guen, MJ; Brorrens, P; Komene, K
As the interdisciplinary field of materials design expands, pressing environmental, social and economic crises mean that the impacts of materials are more clearly perceived (Drazin 2015). This presents a challenge to activate materials towards positive change. Design practices that are relational, place based and deeply attuned to justice and the Earth are needed (Escobar 2017). What might such practices look like within the field of materials design? And how might they be informed by textiles practice? To address these questions, this paper presents and reflects upon a recent study into the development of harakeke (Phormium Tenax/New Zealand Flax) based nonwovens. The aim of the study was to support the re-establishment of harakeke based industry in Aotearoa New Zealand, which recent research suggests could address a range of environmental, social and economic problems specific to the region (McGruddy 2006). The approach taken drew on notions of place-based design and textile thinking, and was underpinned by a collaboration between university based design researchers, an agricultural and a forestry/ biomaterials research institute, an independent designer and an expert in traditional harakeke weaving. An initial review of materials design, research and developments that are predicated on regionally specific resources and knowledge was undertaken. Processing trials were conducted that brought together knowledge from indigenous harakeke weaving practice, fine art practices, industrially based fibre processing techniques and biopolymer processing. The resulting new materials were qualitatively evaluated using emergent models of experiential characterization (Camere and Karana 2018), which showed potential for the materials to be developed towards applications including architectural surfaces and packaging.
The value of textile education and industry partnerships
(Taylor & Francis (Routledge), 31/05/2016) Heffernan S; Kane, F
Textile research/industry partnerships have recently gained momentum in New Zealand. This paper makes a preliminary account by focusing on the benefits of the collaboration to Massey University Master of Design postgraduates, companies, and the academics. The students work on a significant problem faced by a company to rejuvenate business or to produce solutions for a particular or a set of problems. The company gains access to new university research and discoveries and faculty members complement their own academic research by securing funds for graduate students. During a one-year period, the students receive a government-funded scholarship and industry mentoring. The aim is to steer success across the textile value chain from economic and environmental perspectives while balancing academic requirements. Typically, the industry-centered design is developed using iterative processes with a strong emphasis on the role of technology, often requiring the acquirement of new software skills to design with industry equipment. The model establishes best practice to share resources and experiences within the thrust of daily industrial life and the demands of a Master of Design degree. This paper aims to gage the benefits of, and challenges in a range of wool-centered collaborative projects from yarn development to sustainable dye to bedding product development to the revitalization of a weaving mill innovative waste to blue sky solutions for a tannery. The research of novel ideas and process innovation leads to enhanced job placement opportunity and new exports.