2022 Edition

I’m a student in product design at IUAV in Venice. In my thesis project I am developing a research that has as its focus the recovery and reuse of volcanic ash. The European Union classifies volcanic ash within the generic group of “municipal residues” (code 20) and more precisely as “road cleaning residues” (code 0303). We must do better! As indicated by the famous inscription: “Melior de cinere surgo”, which is located in Catania on the Porta Ferdinandea, built in 1768. Inspired by this, the Melior Project was conceived, with the aim of developing a new material, the MAGMA-lite. In the summer of 2021, on my return to Acireale from Venice, I was able to observe how the large amount of volcanic ash had invaded the hinterland causing serious problems relating to disposal, roads, health and daily life. Several tons of ash covered the towns and cities on the slopes of Etna. The latest eruptions have led to volcanic ash emissions consisting of several kilogramms per square meter. Furthermore, volcanic ash causes serious structural and infrastructural damage to buildings, due to the large accumulation of particles on roofs or the reduced traction on roads or airport runways. The basis of the Project is sustainable design. The main  element is tefra ( volcanic ash and lapilli), used 100 percent, rather than as an additive to create other materials in ceramic production. In this way, we will be able to use large amounts of volcanic ash which will consequently be taken away from landfills.