3D Bioprinting Coral Reef Structures - Enhanced with Biomaterials and Living Organisms¶

Concept¶

Using digital fabrication technology and bio-fabrication techniques to design a 3d bio-printed coral reef structure for use in conservation, which is formed from the binding between a living microorganism and natural pollution filtering materials.

I am proposing a 3D bio-printed coral reef structure using living organisms and biomaterials to enhance the reef structure, enabling processes such as biomineralization and bioremediation to occur, pulling pollution from the marine environment and solidifying the reef skeleton. This design provides a more hospitable living environment for marine life and allows for a self-healing living structure which closely imitates coral reefs. The hope is to cultivate marine fungi or cyanobacteria that are adapted to survive in the harsh and changing conditions to create a stronger reef scaffold.

For more information on my initial project proposal please check out my Implications and Applications Week.