Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a living building material that can store carbon dioxide from the air using growing bacteria and hydrogel. The material, which combines cyanobacteria with hydrogel, can be shaped using a 3D printer and grows over time, removing carbon dioxide from the air through photosynthesis. The material only needs sunlight, artificial seawater with nutrients, and carbon dioxide to survive. As the bacteria grows, it forms minerals that trap the carbon dioxide in a stable way, making it harder and stronger over time. The scientists have tested the material in laboratory tests, where it absorbed carbon dioxide for over 400 days. The material has already been applied to several projects, including the Canada Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025 and the Triennale Milano, where it was used to create a green layer on wood that absorbs carbon dioxide from the air. This innovative material has the potential to be used in architecture to store carbon and help fight climate change.
Researchers develop innovative construction material capable of absorbing and storing carbon dioxide.
