Material Explorer – Material Selection Support Tool for Designers

Bringing more awareness about materials and resources is considered to be an important aspect of designing our way towards a more sustainable world.

The Material Explorer is a web-based software application. Digital content is centrally stored and updated by a network of scouts and editors. A (required) broadband Internet connection provides access to information about products, materials and technologies. Company and literature references allow requests for more information or physical material samples.

The Material Explorer improves people’s lives in the following ways: Firstly, designers themselves are supported and challenged in doing materials selection by offering a rich and inspiring software tool to explore new materials and non-conventional applications, including consideration of eco-friendly alternatives. Secondly, the required interdisciplinary team(work) during the materials selection process is supported by a very visual and understandable way. Thirdly, the consumer/business client should experience product results that reflect a well-considered use of our materials/resources from both functional and aesthetic perspective.

Ultimately a great guide for professionals to help co-create a better world with better solutions.