Bioplates

Biodegradable Tableware for Studioneves

Bioplates is a biodegradable and compostable tableware piece developed for professional hospitality. Made from a next-generation biopolymer with mineral reinforcement, it resists up to 140C and over 7000 industrial dishwasher cycles. Its textured surface helps to hide cutlery marks, while the engraved bottom shares an environmental message. Stackable, elegant, lightweight, and carbon negative, Bioplates offers a regenerative alternative to melamine and porcelain in luxury outdoor service, combining design and responsibility.

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Bioplates by Alex Hell

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Biodegradable Tableware by Alex Hell

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Alex Hell Bioplates

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Alex Hell Biodegradable Tableware

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Unique Properties

Bioplates is a fully biodegradable and compostable tableware solution for professional use. Made from a certified next-gen biopolymer, it withstands 140C and over 7,000 industrial wash cycles, without leaving microplastics or toxic residue. Its textured surface hides wear, while engraved messages engage users. Durable, elegant and carbon-negative by design.

Tags

biodegradable tableware, compostable plate, sustainable design, circular product, eco innovation, regenerative material, plastic alternative, hospitality tableware, carbon negative, eco friendly dishware

Production Technology

Bioplates are produced via precision injection molding using a proprietary biopolymer blend with patent pending, reinforced with natural minerals. Molds are stainless steel, optimized for uniform temperature (143C melt, 70C mold) and slow rotation. Texture and engravings are in-mold, minimizing post-processing. The material is TUV certified for biodegradation in soil, marine and compost environments.

Design Challenge

The greatest challenge was balancing biodegradability with professional durability. Most compostable materials are fragile or unsuitable for hospitality. We had to create a formula that resisted heat, impact, and repeated washing - without losing compostability. Legal compliance for food contact, limited industrial know-how, and the absence of references in circular tableware pushed us to prototype, test and refine through scientific and design-led collaboration.

Project Duration

The project started in January 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal, with early material research and design prototyping. Technical testing took place throughout 2024 in collaboration with the University of Aveiro. Final prototypes were completed in January 2025. Bioplates are currently being tested in real-world hospitality settings by a few selected hotels to gather qualified testimonials and performance feedback by the end of 2025.

Operation Flow

Bioplates are used like any standard dish but offer a better experience in both function and conscience. Their textured surface hides cutlery marks, keeping the plate elegant longer. They are lightweight, stackable, and safe for dishwashers and high temperatures. The engraved message on the back invites reflection, turning a simple meal into a moment of environmental awareness.

Research

Material research focused on developing biodegradable, high-performance tableware. The objective was to replace melamine and porcelain in outdoor hospitality. We used lab testing, field trials and iterative design. Tools included mechanical stress tests, dishwasher simulation, and heat resistance analysis. Tests were conducted with the University of Aveiro and hotel partners. Results proved 140C tolerance and 7,000 wash cycles. Insights showed it is possible to unite durability, biodegradability, and elegance.

Inspiration

The project was born from a contradiction: eco-conscious hotels still use melamine or porcelain, which never biodegrade. As a B-Corp working with the world's top chefs, we felt the need for a truly circular solution. We researched biopolymers and partnered with university labs to develop a durable, fully compostable tableware fit for real hospitality use - elegant, regenerative and educational.

Image Credits

Image #1: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Front View with Broken Porcelain, 2025. Image #2: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Top View with Textured Surface, 2025. Image #3: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – top view of contemporary model, 2025. Image #4: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – Detail of Engraving, 2025. Image #5: Photographer Alex Hell (Creative Director) Studioneves, Bioplates – top view of classic model, 2025. Video #1: Videomaker Henrique Casta, Bioplates Cicle, 2025 Video #2: Videomaker Henrique Casta, Bioplates Inspirational, 2025

Project Overview

Bioplates Biodegradable Tableware has been a Silver winner in the Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.

Silver Recognition

Alex Hell was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Bioplates Biodegradable Tableware.

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