Swellcycle Inc. Brings Seymour Center's Ms. Blue Back to Life with Sustainable 3D Printed Bone
Nathan, Jonathan, and Patricio hold the 3d printed bone while standing in front of Ms. Blue whale skeleton exhibit.
Swellcycle Inc., a Santa Cruz startup focused on sustainable surfboard manufacturing, recently announced the successful delivery of the first 3D printed replica bone for Ms. Blue, a beloved local marine mammal exhibit. In collaboration with the UC Santa Cruz Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Swellcycle has embarked on a groundbreaking project to restore Ms. Blue’s decaying skeleton using innovative and eco-friendly methods.
SwellCycle team and Jonathan holding 3d printed bone at Swellcycle’s Westside facility.
By leveraging advanced 3D printing technology and recycled materials, Swellcycle has created a bone replica that not only preserves Ms. Blue’s legacy but also demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship. The new bone is crafted from PETG plastic derived from recycled hospital trays, and its surface is sealed with a bio-based resin. This groundbreaking approach aligns perfectly with the Seymour Center’s mission to protect and preserve the marine ecosystem.
“This collaboration is a match made in ocean heaven, reducing waste and reusing waste is at the core of our business (and our surfboards). Can't wait to see what other bones we make for Ms. Blue!” stated Patricio Guerrero, CEO and Co-Founder of SwellCycle.
Jonathan holds 3d model while Patricio motions toward the original whale bone.
The process of creating the 3D printed bone involved meticulous scanning, modeling, and printing and began back in May of 2024. Halon, a specialized 3d modeling company, handled the complex task of scanning Ms. Blue’s skeleton and reconstructing damaged areas. SwellCycle then transformed the digital model into a physical replica using its state-of-the-art 3D printers.
SwellCycle and the Seymour Center are committed to continuing their collaboration to create additional 3D printed bones for Ms. Blue. This project represents a significant milestone in the field of conservation and demonstrates the power of innovation to address environmental challenges.
About Swellcycle Inc.
SwellCycle is revolutionizing large-format manufacturing with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Using proprietary 3D printing technology, the company creates high-performance products from 100% recycled materials, starting with eco-friendly surfboard cores. SwellCycle's mission is to lead the shift towards environmentally responsible manufacturing, setting new industry standards.
About the Seymour Marine Discovery Center
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a community-supported marine science education center operated by the University of California, Santa Cruz. Mission: The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is dedicated to educating people about the role scientific research plays in the understanding and conservation of the world’s oceans. Through our breathtaking seaside learning center, we bring the adventures and explorations of ocean science to life. Powered by the Long Marine Laboratory, a world-renowned university research facility, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers hands-on immersion into the world of ocean exploration and discovery. In our 20,000-square-foot visitor center, guests can touch a shark, explore the latest discoveries in ocean science, and take in the spectacular Monterey Bay, which has been called the “Serengeti of the sea” for its incredible diversity of marine life. The Center offers a deeper dive into the research conducted at Long Marine Lab and a chance for everyone to find their inner scientist through rich experiential learning programs including school field-trips, summer youth programs, Science Sundays, volunteer opportunities, internships, and more.