jie zhang and tyler stevermer architecturalize an algae photobioreactor

 
jie zhang and tyler stevermer architecturalize an algae photobioreactor
image © iwan baan

an algae photobioreactor is an artificial environment used to increase the production of algae through the introduction of slow movement, carbon dioxide, and increased access to sunlight. the algae produced using this procedure is then used for various consumer products and alternative fuels.

jie zhang and tyler stevermer used this method as part of burglars of trans-natural technology (BOTT) lab pavilion which investigates the potential of biotechnology utilities to create transparent and lightweight architectural surfaces. 

image © iwan baan

the ‘algaevator’ pavilion which was constructed by jie zhang and tyler stevermer in cambridge, MA, USA, uses three separate spirals intercoiled between a heat-fused, water-tight, layered membrane. each spiral has its own unique function. the first introduces CO2 from the environment to the bottom of the coil via a low-energy pump. the second gently transports algae to the top of the spiral while providing it with CO2 for photosynthesis. once at the top of of the pavilion, the algae is able to off-gas oxygen into the environment and travel back down to the bottom of the third spiral for further cycling through the system.

video courtesy of tyler stevermer 

the construction holds all of the contributing components within a large funnel that hangs from the top of the frame. this channel optimizes sun exposure for algae propagation, and harvests rainwater for adjacent bio-tech functions while dividing the otherwise open cube of the pavilion. the weather-tight roofing system adds both spatial value and agriculturally productivity to the everyday environment.

algaevator shades and collects water for adjacent functions
image © iwan baan 

surface detail
image © iwan baan

‘algaevator’ at night
image © iwan baan

mechanism diagram

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