Microalgae are a type of autotrophic plant that is widely distributed on land and ocean, is rich in nutrients, and has high photosynthetic utilization. It grows through photosynthesis and is today's renewable biomass energy source and an effective way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Earlier, researchers discovered that microalgae can produce weak electric currents when performing photosynthesis. By placing a certain amount of microalgae in a sealed glass container, current can be collected to light up the LED light in the bottle.
This time, there is such a peculiar exhibit called "Living Things" in the Pittsburgh Museum of Modern Art. It is a concept microbial photosynthesis lamp uniquely designed by architectural designer Jacob Douenias and industrial designer Ethan Frier, using the unique properties of spirulina in microalgae.
Spirulina was chosen because of its unique green color, its ability to absorb light, and its edible properties (it can be made into powder and added to food). The two designers made special use of these characteristics of spirulina, growing it in an alkaline culture solution, and then placing it in a glass vessel the size of a fish tank. With the cooperation of waste heat, light, and carbon dioxide, the spirulina will produce photosynthesis, thus emitting green light.
These large hand-blown glass bottles with different shapes can provide light and heat to people indoors. At the same time, they are also high-performance photobioreactors, which can heat, glow, ventilate, supplement nutrients and control metabolites for the algae inside.
Working principle and process
The designer packed the spirulina in a variety of large glass vessels of different shapes, which can be hung or placed in the living room and dining room for lighting and decoration. Through photosynthesis through the light, different corners of the room emit a refreshing and pleasant green light. Find an inconspicuous place to install the control system, and connect each light with water pipes and cables. And this control center controls the circulation system of each light.
The 3D printed nylon piston opening is mounted on the desktop, allowing the system flow to be controlled by hand. When the liquid concentration is high enough, these 18 valves can be opened to collect spirulina, or replenish fresh culture liquid. Inside the wooden box below is the core of the entire supply system consisting of pipes, water pumps, air pumps, LED drivers, filtration systems, heaters, etc.
Such a set of microalgae photosynthesis lamps that utilize waste heat and carbon dioxide not only makes the entire interior look fresh and natural, but is also particularly environmentally friendly and energy-saving. If it can be developed effectively, I believe it will bring huge contributions to human society. The purpose of this design by the two designers is to make the public begin to pay attention to the power of microorganisms and allow this resource to be developed.
ANNA