Project Highlight – The Ghost Comb
Last fall, the Circular Solutions Enterprise team had the opportunity to compete in the Biodesign Sprint, a fast-paced design challenge focused on developing innovative solutions, with this years theme for ocean futures. Our team spent the semester working with recovered fishing nets provided by a startup company, Helen of the Sea, and exploring how they could be transformed into usable 3D printing filament. From melting, griding, and extruding recycled polypropylene, to designing and prototyping our fish-shaped surf wax comb, the Ghost Comb, the experience pushed us to think creatively about how waste materials can be turned into functional, meaningful products. The sprint challenge gave us the chance to collaborate across disciplines, test recycling methods, and refine our design through hands-on experimentation.
We were honored to receive Gold Medal recognition for our project, which reflected the creativity, effort, and teamwork that went into the sprint challenge. Beyond the award itself, the Biodesign Sprint was an incredibly rewarding experience that allowed us to learn new skills, work through real engineering challenges, and present our ideas in a competitive setting. It was especially meaningful to share the project with mentors, supporters, and collaborators who helped guide us throughout the process, and it highlighted the impact that interdisciplinary teamwork and community support can have in bringing sustainable ideas to life.