2023

Design Awards Silver Winner - Northann

Blue11

Entrant Company

Northann

Category

Materials & Surfaces - Floor Coverings

Client's Name

Country / Region:

United States

Blue11™ is revolutionizing the flooring and wall panel industry by leveraging Benchwick's proprietary 3D printing technologies to address the ocean plastic pollution crisis. Not a single square mile of the world's oceans is free from plastic waste; with Blue11, Benchwick tackles this challenge head-on, repurposing post-consumer material into a durable 3D printed core made from 80% reclaimed ocean-bound plastic.

Through collaboration with experienced ocean plastic reclamation organizations and expert initiatives, Benchwick ensures that Blue11™'s raw materials are ethically sourced and effectively recovered, cleaned, and processed for reuse directly from our oceans and waterways. Blue11™’s commitment to sustainability is further reinforced by its 100% recyclable packaging and a manufacturing process free of single-use plastics. Benchwick's 3D printing method employs recycled plastic granules that are melted and meticulously layered, ensuring further waste minimization. The end-result is a lightweight plastic core, boasting an unparalleled density of 980 kg/m^3, for fast, cost-effective installation. Every Blue11™ product meets rigorous benchmarks for indoor air quality and is free from formaldehyde, benzene, PVC, and harmful VOCs, in alignment with FloorScore® standards.

But what truly sets Blue11™ apart is its integration with Benchwick’s groundbreaking 3D Printing Ecosystem. This closed-loop system employs several advanced technologies which work together to enhance sustainability, production efficiency, and consumer value:

-Envision™ AI generates unique customizable, wood and tile designs, drawing inspiration from natural landscapes.
-TruBevel™ Technology brings realistic grout designs and rustic edges to the flooring with precision.
-DSE™ (Digital Synchronized Effect) replicates authentic textures, via multi-layered 3D embossing. Infinite Glass™ UV protection technology is applied to preserve product color and longevity.
-ArmorDual™: Anti-microbial coating provides resistance to mold, mildew, and staining.
-MattMaster™ Electron Beam Technology instantly cures into a protective coating, ensuring a durable, low-gloss finish.

By bringing these technologies together with the goal of reprocessing ocean plastic waste, Blue11™ stands as a unique accomplishment of modern environmental stewardship. From resource preservation and digital inventory management to state-of-the-art design and durability features, Blue11™ sets a new standard for consumer choice in sustainable, efficient, and customizable floor and paneling solutions.

Credits

Benchwick, a subsidiary of Northann Corp
Lin Li
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