Algae Reactor: A 3D-Printed Façade Module for Cultivating Chlorella with Indoor CO2
摘要
This paper introduces a 3D-printed façade module that cultivates Chlorella with CO2 to purify indoor air for inhabitants and supply biomass. Algae produces oxygen and biomass and enhances carbon sequestration through photosynthetic processes. The idea of integrating algae into architecture as bioreactors has been developed in recent years. In this research, the façade module consists of a hybrid framework and an algae cultivation apparatus. The hybrid framework is composed of aluminum profiles, a 3D-printed skin, slim solar panels for the pump battery, and fasteners. The algae culture system regulates the photosynthesis inside the tubular liquid to interact with the indoor air. The module’s freeform skin with grooves is 3D printed with large-scale Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF). The convoluted tube along the grooves is always ascendant to make the air travel slowly but smoothly from bottom to top. The prototype installed on the building façade enables the algae organisms in the bioreactor to grow stably. This project introduces biochemistry processes into sustainable design toward metabolism in the built environment.