from cake to cookie

Waste streams the filter cake that is a by-product of water management. This “cake” consists of various substances that are filtered out of the water system, mainly ceramic and porcelain residues, and is therefore a valuable resource despite its fluctuating composition. In addition, the factory’s dust filtration system collects glaze dust and general dust. Interviews conducted at the factory and a review of previous ideas made it clear that a material process was needed that could be seamlessly integrated into the existing production capacity. Initial trials of firing the untreated filter cake showed that although the material was stable after firing, its crumbly and rigid nature made it challenging. 
 
Different mixtures of the cake and dust were tested, showing the potential to create colored materials with porcelain-like qualities or less colored, more porous variants similar to terracotta. These mixtures were subjected to various processes such as casting, pressing and rolling, with pressing proving to be the most effective treatment. Final tests investigated the possibility of creating shingles for the renovation of the factory façade or tiles with joints to promote nature on terraces that could be created on the existing parking lot.