Researchers are working on a project called REMEDY to create “living tattoos” on building walls by applying living microorganisms using inkjet printing technology. These microorganisms can sense stress, capture CO2 and pollutants, and even repair cracks in the walls. The goal is to turn passive building surfaces into active bio-interfaces, making buildings more sustainable and adaptive. The team is selecting specific microbial groups that can coexist and serve specific purposes, such as sensing gas or pollutant levels. The living tattoos could be used to create patches that repair and maintain buildings, and even produce oxygen and sequester carbon. The method of application is challenging, but the team is working with companies to modify printers that can handle biologically active ink. The results could be transformative, allowing buildings to become more sustainable and self-repairing. The researchers expect that in 50 years, building tattoos will become commonplace, and new buildings will be expected to have a positive environmental footprint. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we build and maintain buildings, making them more interactive and sustainable.
Tattoo-like coatings on buildings may revolutionize architecture by enabling structures to purify the air and repair themselves autonomously.
