AlgaMatrix: Integrated Micro-Algae Building Systems for Sustainable Development Research



Introduction 


Anthropogenic activities are driving climate change and extreme weather events, posing significant threats to human health, ecosystems, and built environments. With the rising urban population, the environmental impact of the building sector is becoming increasingly alarming. Given the high embodied energy and energy consumption associated with buildings, there is a pressing need to advocate for self-sustaining architectural functions and carbon-neutral practices.

In response to these challenges, this project introduces AlgaMatrix—a revolutionized algae-based bioreactor integrated as part of the living building system. AlgaMatrix operates through a modular assembly of inflatable pockets, facilitating the circulation of living microalgae and harnessing their ability to convert water and carbon dioxide into vital organic compounds.

This project tackles pressing environmental concerns by employing advanced materials, computational technology, and biophilic design to regenerate consumable resources and promote sustainable architectural practices. Drawing parallels with regenerative life support systems (RLSS) crucially utilized in NASA Habitat designs for their efficient recycling of limited resources, AlgaMatrix envisions a future where buildings not only sustain themselves but also actively contribute to environmental revitalization.

1. Micro Algae Cultivation

1. 1 Species Comparison – Chlorella vulgaris vs Spirulina platensis
Two micro-algae species, Chlorella vulgaris and Spirulina platensis, were selected for cultivation experiment due to their high efficiency in air purification and environmental revitalization. These species were chosen for their robust growth rates and resilience under varying environmental conditions. The microalgae were cultivated in flasks on a lab shaker, with parafilm covering the openings to facilitate the organisms' respiration.


Documentation of Algae cultivation (Batch 1-2) over 4 weeks 




1. 2 Growth Measurement – Microscopy Counting
To identify the most suitable housing material for microalgae species to ensure efficient growth and integration within the bioreactor, we conducted a systematic comparison experiment using various types of TPU sheets. We cultured Chlorella vulgaris and Dunaliella salina on these TPU samples and monitored their interactions over two weeks. The microscopic analysis revealed differential adhesion and clumping behaviors among the samples. Based on these observations, we identified 0.3mm clear TPU as the most suitable structural material. This material exhibited favorable interaction with the microalgae, facilitating optimal growth conditions.
1. 3 Material Selection – Growth Test on Different Materials

1.4 Results
Through a series of experiments, Chlorella Vulgaris is identified as the optimal microalgae species for this application. Known for its high growth rate and substantial carbon dioxide fixation capabilities (Wirth et al. 2020), Chlorella Vulgaris thrives in diverse environmental conditions, enhancing the system’s viability across various geographic conditions[3]. This selection underscores the organism’s contribution to biophilic and sustainable design strategies and integrates the organism’s behavioral characteristics into the creation of dynamic, resilient forms.

2. Computational Design of Structure

2.2 Design Concept 
AlgaMatrix integrates advanced materials and geometric principles to create dynamic, sustainable architectural elements. Each module, made from shockproof 3D-printed PLA, houses microalgae in inflatable pockets of 0.3mm TPU sheets, enabling flexible growth and maintenance while allowing convenient inflation or deflation. The structural integrity of AlgaMatrix is based on a tetrahedral configuration, which forms a graphene-like shape, utilizing equilateral triangles for stability and material efficiency. This design ensures that each module is lightweight yet robust and can be easily assembled or disassembled to meet specific needs, optimizing material use and resource efficiency. Designed with flexibility in mind, the modular system enables customized assembly tailored to specific needs while offering various configurations, spanning from standalone furniture-scale bioreactors to expanded setups forming larger shading screens, further enhancing its adaptability to diverse environmental and architectural contexts.
2.2 Design Modeling 
The structural integrity of Algamatrix is based on a tetrahedral configuration, which forms a graphene-like shape, utilizing equilateral triangles for stability and material efficiency. This design ensures that each module is lightweight yet robust and can be easily assembled or disassembled to meet specific needs, optimizing material use and resource efficiency. 

2.3 Fluid Simulation & AnalysisTo further optimize the design for efficient culture flow, fluidic simulation of the Algamatrix module was conducted using COMSOL Physics. In the simulation, the culture enters from the top-right corner and exits from the bottom-left corner. The analysis revealed pressure levels inside the module, providing insights into potential pressure drops and ensuring uniform distribution. The velocity field of the fluid was also studied, highlighting areas of different flow speeds and identifying any potential dead zones or high-velocity regions that might affect the culture's growth. Additionally, the velocity magnitudes at a selected point in the structure over time were analyzed to assess the stability and consistency of the flow. These simulations facilitates refining the design to ensure optimal conditions for microalgae cultivation and circulation.

2.4 Fabrication & Assembly

2.5 Design Outcome

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