How did the idea for this paper and products arise?
We focused on existing markets and opportunities. Chile is a large fruit producer selling products worldwide. But because Chile is geographically far away from most key ports in Europe, North America and Asia, it is challenging to ensure the fruit products arrive in perfect condition. This need set the stage for developing a container that held its shape, protected the fruit and kept it fresh. At the outset we decided to focus on obtaining a material that had antimicrobial properties that could be developed into packaging for fruit exports. As the research progressed, we realized that there were other opportunities, in various industries, for a material with these characteristics.
How and when was the decision made to involve the students in the bag-making project?
Linking the advances and knowledge acquired through the field of research to the training process of undergraduate students is a priority for our faculty. For this reason, researchers carry out various actions to link research with undergraduate studies, seeking to develop research skills and open opportunities in the future academic and professional career of students. This led to the proposed application of copper paper technology (Cu paper) to everyday objects for exhibition at the 2023 Salone del Mobile, a trade show in Milan.
How many students were involved in the project and how much time did they have to present their creations?
Around 40 students participated in the challenge, and it lasted one academic semester.
Specifically, the students worked on the development of the collection in two stages. For
a semester they addressed the processes of
conceptualization, ideation and prototyping, having to identify various conditions of use of the bag product, researching and understanding the technical capabilities of the material and incorporating artisan techniques such as waxing, dyeing, folding, and assembly into their creative process. From the initial 40 students, 21 proposals were selected for the second stage.
The second stage of work, carried out for an additional semester, involved the process of engaging haptic, ergonomic, and finishing improvements to achieve high-quality handmade products. In this way, 21 utilitarian and sustainable objects were created, designed to transport everyday items, which stand out for their quality, originality, and functionality. These 21 bags constituted the Cu Fibra collection.
Do your students, your department or the university intend to market the bags made by students? Have you found any market or distributor acceptance for the bags?
The university does not market student products. The Cu Fibra Collection was created for academic purposes and designed to be exhibited at the 2023 Salone del Mobile, a trade show in Milan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the bags were widely accepted by the public and the collection was almost entirely sold. It should be noted that both the bags on display and those that the students brought to market were unique pieces, made 100 percent by hand, which is why their great value was appropriately recognized.
What price range did the students charge for their bags?
The prices were established by each designer (student) and the range fluctuated between 150 and 300 euros.
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