Recording Material Testing

One effective way I’ve documented our exploration of agricultural byproducts is through video. I filmed various methods of us creating materials from farming byproducts and transformed them into engaging Instagram reels. Each video is designed to present techniques that anyone can try at home, showcasing the potential for these methods to be scaled up in the future.

CoRncrete

The first material we tested was coRncrete, a sustainable substitute for traditional concrete made from sand/dirt, cornstarch, and water. During our experiments, we adjusted ingredient proportions and found that stronger bricks were made by using more water.

Banana Leather

We then tested banana leather, made from banana peels. It turned out to be stronger than I expected. We also tested making the same kind of material out of the fibrous pulp on the inside of the peel which also had good results.

Edible Bricks (Oranges)

We also explored making edible bricks from orange peels, but this attempt did not turn out to be successful. The mixture failed to bind properly, which was disappointing. However, I see this setback as an opportunity for further research. Our next steps include experimenting with different amounts of ingredients and altering mixing techniques.

Sharing the Journey on Instagram

To keep track of these experiments and share what we learn, I created an Instagram account to post videos of these projects. By sharing our successes and failures, I aim to encourage others to try these methods for themselves at home. In just a few hours, we have already gained a few followers!