Researchers have developed 3D-printed living structures that can bind CO2 from the atmosphere, providing a low-energy and environmentally friendly approach to carbon sequestration. The structures are composed of a hydrogel that harbors cyanobacteria, which are highly efficient at photosynthesis and can utilize even weak light to produce biomass from CO2 and water. As a result of photosynthesis, the bacteria precipitate solid carbonates, such as lime, which store CO2 in a stable form. The material has been shown to bind CO2 continuously over a period of 400 days, with a significant amount of CO2 stored in mineral form. The researchers envision using this material as a coating for building facades to bind CO2 throughout the entire life cycle of a building. Initial experiments have been realized in installations in Venice and Milan, demonstrating the potential of living materials for future building envelopes.
A revolutionary, carbon-storing substance that doubles as a living construction material
