Bioplates Biodegradable Tableware by Alex Hell |
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| DESIGN NAME: Bioplates PRIMARY FUNCTION: Biodegradable Tableware INSPIRATION: The project was born from a contradiction: eco-conscious hotels still use melamine or porcelain, which never biodegrade. As a B-Corp working with the world's top chefs, we felt the need for a truly circular solution. We researched biopolymers and partnered with university labs to develop a durable, fully compostable tableware fit for real hospitality use - elegant, regenerative and educational. UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Bioplates is a fully biodegradable and compostable tableware solution for professional use. Made from a certified next-gen biopolymer, it withstands 140C and over 7,000 industrial wash cycles, without leaving microplastics or toxic residue. Its textured surface hides wear, while engraved messages engage users. Durable, elegant and carbon-negative by design. OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Bioplates are used like any standard dish but offer a better experience in both function and conscience. Their textured surface hides cutlery marks, keeping the plate elegant longer. They are lightweight, stackable, and safe for dishwashers and high temperatures. The engraved message on the back invites reflection, turning a simple meal into a moment of environmental awareness. PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project started in January 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal, with early material research and design prototyping. Technical testing took place throughout 2024 in collaboration with the University of Aveiro. Final prototypes were completed in January 2025. Bioplates are currently being tested in real-world hospitality settings by a few selected hotels to gather qualified testimonials and performance feedback by the end of 2025. |
PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Bioplates are produced via precision injection molding using a proprietary biopolymer blend with patent pending, reinforced with natural minerals. Molds are stainless steel, optimized for uniform temperature (143C melt, 70C mold) and slow rotation. Texture and engravings are in-mold, minimizing post-processing. The material is TUV certified for biodegradation in soil, marine and compost environments. SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Dimensions: 215 mm diameter x 15 mm height. The plate features a slightly irregular rim for a handcrafted aesthetic. It is lightweight yet impact-resistant, suitable for industrial dishwashers and temperatures up to 140C. Packaging is made entirely from recycled, compostable paper, with no plastic components. Units are stacked with protective recycled paper sheets and shipped in low-volume boxes optimized for logistics and minimal waste. TAGS: biodegradable tableware, compostable plate, sustainable design, circular product, eco innovation, regenerative material, plastic alternative, hospitality tableware, carbon negative, eco friendly dishware RESEARCH ABSTRACT: Material research focused on developing biodegradable, high-performance tableware. The objective was to replace melamine and porcelain in outdoor hospitality. We used lab testing, field trials and iterative design. Tools included mechanical stress tests, dishwasher simulation, and heat resistance analysis. Tests were conducted with the University of Aveiro and hotel partners. Results proved 140C tolerance and 7,000 wash cycles. Insights showed it is possible to unite durability, biodegradability, and elegance. CHALLENGE: The greatest challenge was balancing biodegradability with professional durability. Most compostable materials are fragile or unsuitable for hospitality. We had to create a formula that resisted heat, impact, and repeated washing - without losing compostability. Legal compliance for food contact, limited industrial know-how, and the absence of references in circular tableware pushed us to prototype, test and refine through scientific and design-led collaboration. ADDED DATE: 2025-04-08 05:50:47 TEAM MEMBERS (4) : Project Lead: Alex Hell, Creative Director: Alex Hell, Production Development: Studioneves Team and Scientific Testing Partner: University of Aveiro and Sublime Hotel IMAGE CREDITS: Image #1: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Front View with Broken Porcelain, 2025. Image #2: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Top View with Textured Surface, 2025. Image #3: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – top view of contemporary model, 2025. Image #4: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Detail of Engraving, 2025. Image #5: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – top view of classic model, 2025. Video #1: Videomaker Henrique Casta, Bioplates Cicle, 2025 Video #2: Videomaker Henrique Casta, Bioplates Inspirational, 2025 PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: Patent Pending. Patent Application No. EP 25166012.2. Holder: SN PORTUGAL, LDA. Filed in 2025. Jurisdiction: European Patent Office. Title: "Biodegradable Tableware Item and Method for its Production." |
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| Visit the following page to learn more: https://www.studioneves.com | |||||
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NAME: Studioneves PROFILE: Studioneves is a ceramic atelier currently based in Portugal, specialising in the design and production of sustainable, handcrafted tableware for the hospitality sector. Founded by Brazilian designers Alex Hell and Gabi Neves, the studio collaborates with leading chefs and hotels worldwide to create bespoke ceramic pieces that combine functionality, aesthetic precision, and environmental responsibility. Studioneves operates in over 18 countries, offering tailored solutions for both fine dining and large-scale hospitality groups. The studio integrates circular design principles, renewable energy, and waste recovery into its production process. Studioneves was the first ceramic atelier in Europe to achieve B-Corp certification and is carbon neutral since 2021. |
| AWARD DETAILS | |
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Bioplates Biodegradable Tableware by Alex Hell is Winner in Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design Category, 2024 - 2025.· Read the interview with designer Alex Hell for design Bioplates here.· Press Members: Login or Register to request an exclusive interview with Alex Hell. · Click here to register inorder to view the profile and other works by Alex Hell. |
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