Material ConneXion is a comprehensive materials consultancy and database that serves as a vital resource for designers, engineers, architects, and innovators across various disciplines. Here is an overview of what the product does and its key features and functionality:
What Material ConneXion Does
Material ConneXion is designed to connect users with a vast array of materials and processes, facilitating innovation and design development. It was founded in 1997 by George Beylerian, with the goal of providing a centralized library of materials that can inspire and inform design decisions.
Key Features
Extensive Materials Library
Material ConneXion maintains both physical and digital libraries, featuring over 10,000 materials and processes. These materials are categorized based on their chemical composition, including polymers, natural materials, metals, glass, ceramics, cement-based materials, and carbon-based materials.
Advanced Search Capabilities
The database offers advanced search functionality, allowing users to explore and discover materials based on specific properties such as heat resistance, colorfastness, and other performance criteria. Users can search by keyword, material type, manufacturer name, and manufacturer location.
High-Quality Visuals and Descriptions
The database includes high-quality photographs and detailed descriptions of each material, providing a comprehensive understanding of the materials’ characteristics and applications.
Sustainability and Certification
Material ConneXion is notable for its focus on sustainable materials and practices. It is the only materials library to feature Cradle to Cradle assessed and certified materials, and it offers Cradle to Cradle Certification and product development services through its partnership with McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC) and the Environmental Protection and Encouragement Agency (EPEA).
Regular Updates and Curation
The database is regularly updated with new materials, with 50 to 60 juried materials added each month. It also ensures that discontinued materials are removed, keeping the information current and relevant.
Manufacturer Contact Information
Material ConneXion provides users with the contact information of material suppliers, along with a built-in email form to request samples and price quotes, streamlining the process of sourcing materials.
Global Access
In addition to its physical locations in New York City, Bangkok, Daegu, Milan, and Skövde, Material ConneXion offers an online database, making its resources accessible to users worldwide.
Functionality
- Inspiration and Research: Artists, designers, engineers, and innovators can browse the database for ideas and inspiration, as well as to find materials that meet specific performance needs.
- Design Development: The resource supports all disciplines of design development, including architecture, industrial design, textile design, and landscape architecture.
- Sustainability Focus: It promotes sustainable design practices by highlighting materials that are environmentally friendly and certified under rigorous sustainability standards.
- Practical Tools: The database includes tools for locating certified materials, requesting samples, and obtaining price quotes directly from suppliers.
Overall, Material ConneXion serves as a powerful tool for anyone involved in design, engineering, or innovation, providing unparalleled access to a diverse range of materials and processes.