Mussel shells are a by-product of the seafood industry and are often treated as waste. However, Ocean Ceramics, a company founded by four students from Zeeland in the Netherlands, explores how to use this material as a secondary raw input for ceramics. In doing so, the team contributes to a more circular approach to material use.

Development Of A Shell-Based Ceramic Composition

To achieve this, Ocean Ceramics carried out extensive research and testing. As a result, the team developed a method that allows approximately 20% mussel shell content in ceramic formulations. They refined the material composition through multiple iterations and produced test samples to ensure suitable performance.

The company manufactures the ceramics in Portugal using established production techniques. This approach ensures that the material retains the functional properties of conventional ceramics. At the same time, it reduces the need for virgin raw materials by introducing shell-derived content.

Application In Tableware

In 2024, Ocean Ceramics introduced its first collection, including cups and side plates. These products show how designers can apply shell-based material in tableware without altering form or usability.

Moreover, the integration of mussel shells reduces dependence on primary resources. Therefore, the material may appeal to designers who aim to incorporate recycled or bio-based content into their projects.

Ongoing Material Exploration

Ocean Ceramics continues to develop the material further. For example, the company aims to increase the percentage of shell content in future products. In addition, it explores new applications and offers potential for custom-made solutions.

Broader Implications For Design

Overall, the use of mussel shells in ceramics reflects a wider shift in material development. Increasingly, designers reconsider waste streams as potential resources. Consequently, this approach highlights how locally available by-products can support more circular design strategies.

Source & photos: Ocean Ceramics