Nov 03, 2016 New Location and Samples in the Materials Collection

Hi everyone! My name is Rachel and I am the Fine Arts and Architecture Library assistant. I am happy to announce that over the summer we received 500 new samples for the Materials Collection and moved the collection into the Knowledge Commons on the second level of the Marriott Library.

The new location allows for more students to interact and use this innovative collection. I just want to highlight some of my favorite new samples and encourage you to go find these samples and then discover your own favorites!

MC# 7528-02
SHENLI® Polar Fleece

To put it simply, I love this sample because it is so unbelievably soft. It’s made of synthetic polar fleece which is primarily composed of polyester, which exhibits softness and high elasticity as well as additional properties such as moisture absorption, heat retention and temperature regulation. It is designed to provide warmth while being lightweight and comfortable. Possible applications for this sample are sportswear, casualwear, blankets and high-performance outdoor clothing. If you need a pick-me-up throughout your day, then go feel this sample.

MC# 6144-01
100 Year Pillow

This sample is another great one to touch. It is a pillow, but uses a natural filler of 100% Buckwheat hulls.The hulls are a byproduct of the food industry are cleaned and dried and mixed with Thai herbs and wood additives to prevent infestation of insects and dust mites. The polygonal shape of the hulls allows air pockets to form, which don’t flatten out during sleep, these pockets of air are warmed by the body, producing a warm pillow which does not promote hot spots. This pillow can be used as a durable alternative to down and synthetic fills for pillows.

MC# 7473-01
Polymagnet®

This last sample is really unique because it is so interactive. These two magnets show a different level of control over polarity in a single part. The ‘Attach’ version is claimed to be the world’s strongest magnet because its magnetic field has been concentrated near the surface. They are up to 5x stronger attaching to metal and are also safer than other magnets because they only engage at close range. The ‘Latch’ version will repel until they pass through a defined transition point, at which point they will attract and attach. These magnets can be used as cabinet latches, for retail fixtures, for consumer electronics and product design.

If you want to learn more about these samples or others, please look at the Material ConneXion database quick search station. The database provides access to photos of the materials, physical properties, recommended uses, sustainability, and manufacturer contact information for 8,000+ samples!

Happy searching!

View the original article on the Creativity and Innovation Services Blog