Micro-algae put to work for zero-carbon fa莽ades
New technology that uses micro-algae installed in building components to capture solar energy and provide shading is set to get a real-life test.
The 鈥渂io-adaptive fa莽ade鈥� concept uses live micro-algae growing in glass louvers to shield the inside of buildings from sunlight at the same time as generating energy - and biomass 鈥� from solar thermal heat.
The technology is being led by design consultant Arup in co-operation with SSC (Strategic Science Conslut of Germany).
Jan Wurm , Arup鈥檚 Europe research leader, said the use of bio-chemical processes for adaptive shading was 鈥渁 really innovative and sustainable鈥� solution.
鈥淎s well as generating renewable energy and providing shade to keep the inside of the building cooler on sunny days, it also creates a visually interesting look that architects and building owners will like,鈥� he said.
The world-first test fa莽ade will be installed in a house being built for the International 黑洞社区 Exhibition in Hamburg, which runs through 2013.
Colt International is fabricating shading louvres for the BIQ house, according to Arup鈥檚 design.
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