# Shell-Based Printing Filaments The Z Spools Filament for 3D Printing Uses Invasive Mussel Shells By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2018-10-15 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/filament-for-3d-printing References: [3dprint](https://3dprint.com/226970/student-turns-invasive-species-into-filament/) & [lorenajames](http://www.lorenajames.com/z-spools/) When it comes to choosing a filament for 3D printing, there are tons of options available, each of which offers unique properties. Some [3D printing filaments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pla-filament-bundles) are made by mixing a fine powder into a base material and others boast all-natural, nontoxic and [100% compostable](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compostable-pipette) benefits. As part of an entrepreneurship class, Lorena James developed an idea called 'Z Spools' for a 3D printer filament made from the shell of the quagga mussel. On top of addressing a potential way to deal with an invasive species, this filament for 3D printing introduces a [sustainable material for additive manufacturing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loop-concept). The concept was entered into the Cleveland Water Alliance Erie Hack competition and won. Now, James is proceeding with a utility patent application and is looking to mass produce the innovative product. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.2/10 - Popularity: 28% | Activity: 29% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Sustainable Filaments:** The use of all-natural and compostable filaments in 3D printing presents opportunities for environmentally-friendly manufacturing. - **Invasive Species Solutions:** Developing new products and materials from invasive species like quagga mussels can create innovative solutions for environmental management. - **Entrepreneurship in Additive Manufacturing:** The rise of entrepreneurial ventures in the field of additive manufacturing opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in the 3D printing industry. ### Sectors Adopting This - **3D Printing:** The 3D printing industry can leverage sustainable filaments to meet growing demand for eco-friendly manufacturing solutions. - **Environmental Management:** The development of products from invasive species provides opportunities for industries focused on environmental restoration and invasive species control. - **Entrepreneurship Education:** The success of Lorena James' entrepreneurship class project highlights the potential for innovative ideas and products to emerge from educational programs focused on entrepreneurship. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [3D-Printed Filament Makers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polyformer.md) - [3D-Printed Eel Alternatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-printed-eel.md) - [3D-Printed Shrimps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-printed-shrimp.md) - [3D-Printable Packaging Pastes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reishi-mushroom-printable-material.md) - [Multicolor Printer Filament Modules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/filament-module.md) - [Eco-Friendly 3D Printer Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loop-concept.md) - [Bio-Printed Fish Fillets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cultivated-fish-fillet.md) - [Mycelium-Growing 3D-Printed Scaffolds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3dprinted-scaffold.md) - [3D-Printed Salmon Alternatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/salmon-alternatives.md)