Researchers Design a Microalgae Capable of Filtering Polluted Air
Grace Mahas — October 17, 2019 — Eco
References: coaa.uncc.edu & archpaper
The University of North Carolina’s Integrated Design Research Lab (IDRL), located in Charlotte, has a team of scientists researching a new algae glass curtainwall that's capable of filtering polluted air.
The system works by having unfiltered air rise through "the matrix of the algae-embedded facade" which "is subsequently pumped into the building’s HVAC system." This air then passes through a curtain wall module that is pumped with fresh microalgae to collected carbon. The Carbon-filled algae are then collected and dewatered to be converted into energy.
Besides the air quality benefits, the algae glass also provides users with shading and can be customized with specific colors for a unique and dynamic aesthetic. Moreover, the new technology could substantially reduce energy expanded to help create net-zero energy buildings in the new few years.
Image Credit: Divided Microalgae Facades
The system works by having unfiltered air rise through "the matrix of the algae-embedded facade" which "is subsequently pumped into the building’s HVAC system." This air then passes through a curtain wall module that is pumped with fresh microalgae to collected carbon. The Carbon-filled algae are then collected and dewatered to be converted into energy.
Besides the air quality benefits, the algae glass also provides users with shading and can be customized with specific colors for a unique and dynamic aesthetic. Moreover, the new technology could substantially reduce energy expanded to help create net-zero energy buildings in the new few years.
Image Credit: Divided Microalgae Facades
Trend Themes
1. Pollution-filtering Algae Glass - Using algae-embedded glass to filter polluted air presents a disruptive innovation opportunity in the field of sustainable architecture and air purification.
2. Microalgae as Carbon Collectors - Utilizing microalgae to collect carbon from polluted air offers a disruptive innovation opportunity in the renewable energy and carbon capture industries.
3. Customizable Algae Glass - The development of customizable algae glass with shading capabilities creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for the architectural and design industries.
Industry Implications
1. Sustainable Architecture - The integration of algae glass in buildings can revolutionize sustainable architecture by providing a solution for air purification and energy conversion.
2. Renewable Energy - The use of microalgae to collect carbon and convert it into energy has the potential to disrupt the renewable energy industry by offering a more sustainable and efficient energy source.
3. Design and Aesthetics - The customization possibilities of algae glass, such as specific colors and shading capabilities, open up disruptive innovation opportunities in the design industry for unique and visually appealing architectural elements.
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