Dead Zone: Inhabiting the Hypoxic System by Kyle Altman

DEADZONE: INHABITING THE HYPOXIC SYSTEM by Kyle Altman Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Design, University of Florida, May 2011

Submitted to the Department of Architecture in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology February 2014 ÂŠ 2014 Massachusetts Institute of Technology. All rights reserved. The author hereby grants to MIT permission to reproduce and to distribute publicly paper and electronic copies of this thesis document in whole or in part in any medium now known or hereafter created.

Signature of Author: .......................................................................................... Department of Architecture January 16, 2014

Certified by : ....................................................................................................... Andrew Scott Associate Professor of Architecture Thesis Advisor

Accepted by: ....................................................................................................... Takehiko Nagakura Chair of the Department Committee on Graduate Students

Thesis Readers Ant贸n Garc铆a-Abril PhD Professor of Architecture Gediminas Urbonas MFA Associate Professor of Art, Culture and Technology

DEADZONE: INHABITING THE HYPOXIC SYSTEM By: Kyle Altman Submitted to the Department of Architecture on Janurary 16, 2014 in Partial Fullfillment of the requirements for the degree of MArch. Hypoxia: a phenomenon that occurs in aquatic environments as dissolved oxygen is reduced in concentration to a point where it becomes detrimental to organisms living in the system. Since the mid 20th century, oceanographers began noting increased instances of dead zones when heavy fertilization became a widespread practice in modern agricultural mass production. These systems typically occur near inhabited coastlines where aquatic life is most concentrated resulting in dwindling fish stocks and increased travel distances to access fertile water decreasing fuel efficiency across the global fishing industry, which consumes approximately 50 billion liters of fuel per year. In addition, recreational activities and tourism have been affected by the resulting odor and discoloration of low oxygen level zones. The Northern Gulf of Mexico region has seen substantial growth in the average size and severity of its hypoxic zone and is one of the largest systems today. Where, 41% of the contiguous United States drains into the Mississippi basin releasing a tremendous amount of nitrogen and phosphorus into the coastal areas offering a nesting ground for massive algae blooms to occur.

Thesis Supervisor: Andrew Scott Title: Associate Professor of Architecture

DEADZONE

Maritime institutes have been attempting to resolve this issue with larger infrastructural landscape interventions including: artificial wet lands, reefs, oyster beds, diminishing fertilizer use, etc. However, Completely diminishing dead zones, especially the systems that pose the most threat, would involve incredible global engineering and cultural shifts. This proposal is not attempting to completely resolve the issue of hypoxic systems. It accepts the inexhaustible supply of rich nutrients as a critical gesture of visibility catering to the affects of the social political agenda inland. Meaning, this reoccurring issue of hypoxia would be utilized as an opportunity to deploy a network of interventions offering a platform or tangible interface for maritime institutes to utilize as a catalyst to generate soft boundaries of oxygenated waters for animal life attraction, harvesting algae, as well as progressing data throughout the Louisiana-Texas shelf for the understanding of dead zones.

DEADZONE

CONTENT

Contents 1. Abstract

02 - 03

2. Hypoxia Hypoxia

08 - 15

Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico

16 - 19

Algae Typologies

20 - 21

3. Precedents

Early Studies

22 - 24

Platform Typologies

25 - 35

4. Proposal

Hypoxia Severity Pinpoints

36 - 40

Techniques of Mitigation

40 - 41

Modalities into 2050

42 - 43

Satellite Research Station

44 - 57

5. Process Final Models

58 - 75

First Review

76 - 79

Midterm Review

80 - 87

Post Midterm

88 - 95

7. Final Dead Zone

96 - 107

8. Bibliography

108 - 109

DEADZONE

HYPOXIA

LLUTION FROM HUMAN ACTIVITIES COUPLED WITH OTHER FACTORS THAT DEPLETE THE OXYGEN

QUIRED TO SUPPORT MOST MARINE LIFE IN BOTTOM AND NEAR-BOTTOM WATER. THESE ACTIVITIES

CLUDE AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL WASTE, URBAN SOURCES, UNCULTIVATED LAND, AND RIVER ENGI-

ERING. COMPLETLEY DIMINISHING DEAD ZONES WOULD INCLUDE INCREDIBLE GLOBAL ENGINEER-

G AND CULTURAL SHIFTS, NEAR IMPOSSIBLE. INSTEAD, THIS REOCCURING ISSUE COULD BE USED AS OPPORTUNITY TO DEPLOY A CRITICAL GESTURE ACTING AS A CATALYST FOR MARINE LIFE ATTRAC-

N. MITIGATING THE HYPOXIC ZONE SLIGHTLY WILL OFFER A SOFT BOUNDARY FOR AN ARCHITECTURE BASED ON SPECTATION OF MARINE ACTIVITY.

Hypoxia Eutrophication is a phenomenon in which pollution of aquatic ecosystems with excessive nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus results in increased primary productivity by phototrophic bacteria, algae and higher aquatic plants. It is now recognized to be one of the most important factors contributing to habitat change and temporal expansion of harmful algal blooms. Sewage discharge and runoff from agriculture have been identified as the main sources of nutrient pollution. Both nitrogen and phosphorus have been implicated as contributing to eutrophication, but nitrogen has received more attention because the amount of nitrogen used in fertilizers is far greater than phosphorus. Elevated levels of nutrients can change the phytoplankton community composition through induced changes in predation, resource limitation, light availability and biological effects on sediments. The primary eutrophic symptoms in surveys done by the NOAA were decreased light transparency, high chlorophyll a concentration, and change in algal dominance. The composition of phytoplankton depend s on a balance of many factors, and phytoplankton ecology needs

BURNING FOSSIL FUELS

FARMLAND FERTILIZER RUNOFF

H2S ANOXIA

- TEMPERATURE INCREASE

- ATMOSHPERIC PRESSURE - SALINITY

4 19

5 19

6 19

7 19

N DEAD ZONES

OF HYPOXIC SYSTEMS

8 19

07 90 19 0020

ALGAE BLOOMS RAPID GROWTH FROM RUNOFF NUTRIENTS(SUFFOCATES OCEAN) 7 BACTERIA HAVEN FROM DEAD ALGAE, RENDERS SURROUNDING WATERS UNSUITABLE FOR LIFE

14.007

N NITROGEN

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

DEADZONE

- NUMBER OF AQUATIC PLA

WATER LEVEL (FRESH WATER TOP LAYER)

figure 1.1: Aerial view of an algae bloom in the Gulf of Mexico

to be viewed within the context of spatial heterogeneity and seasonal

oxygen in the water column.

variations.

Major coastal hypoxic zones are known to occur in approximately 146 locations around the globe and can cover vast oceanic expansEffects and Locations

es, larger than 90,000 km2 in some cases.1 Notable dead zones in

Hypoxia describes a condition of low dissolved oxygen content

the United States include the northern Gulf of Mexico region, sur-

(< 2mg/L) in natural water bodies that is environmentally undesirable

rounding the outfall of the Mississippi River, and the coastal re-

because it does not support most marine creatures and can result

gions of the Pacific Northwest, and the Elizabeth River in Virginia

in large-scale kills of aquatic animals. Hypoxia typically occurs fol-

Beach, all of which have been shown to be recurring events over

lowing a large-scale algae bloom that dies off and is subsequently

the last several years.2 The image above is an aerial view reveal-

consumed by heterotrophic bacteria, which deplete all the available

ing the beginning of the euthrophication process taking place in

Since the 1970s dead zones have increased in size significantly

trawlers first reported a ‘dead zone’ in the Gulf of Mexico in 1950 but

and maritime institutes are searching for options sush as artifi-

it wasn’t until 1970 when the size of the hypoxic zone had increased

cial wetlands, reefs, and deconstruction. New studies suggest

that scientists began to investigate. In the 1970s, marine dead zones

collecting or harvesting the algae may begin to diminish the area

were first noted in areas where intensive economic use stimulated

of severity. Figures 1.2 and 1.3 represent this landscape infra-

“first-world” scientific scrutiny: in the U.S. East Coast’s Chesapeake

structure system through an axonometric.

Bay, in Scandinavia’s strait called the Kattegat, which is the mouth of the Baltic Sea and in other important Baltic Sea fishing grounds, in the Black Sea, and in the northern Adriatic. A 2008 study counted 405 dead zones worldwide

1. Chih-Ting Kuo, 2010 2. The Economist, 2012 3. David Perlman, 2008

DEADZONE

one of the largest hypoxic systems today: The Gulf of Mexico. Shrimp

14.007

N P NITROGEN

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

figure 1.2: Inland nutrient runoff; draining through delta

15.99

O OXYGEN

DEADZONE

figure 1.3: Algae bloom causing hypoxia; intervention

10m

15m

figure 1.4: fresh water nutrients from delta

figure 1.5: algae bloom begins to form

figure 1.6: dying algae causes over-population

figure 1.7: algae dies and sinks to bottom

figure 1.8: oxygen begins to dissolve from bacteria

figure 1.9: area becomes hypoxic, life flees or dies

10m

15m

10m

15m

Diatom Phytoplankton

100% SATURATION 7 to 8 mg/l NORMAL ACTIVITY & BEHAVIOR 3 to 4

AVOIDANCE BY FISH

HYPOXIA

MOBILE FAUNA BEGIN TO MIGRATE TO HIGHER AREAS

2.0

FISH ABSENT

1.5

SHRIMPS AND CRABS ABSENT

FAUNA UNABLE TO ESCAPE INTIATE SURVIVAL BEHAVIORS

BURROWING STOPS

1.0

STRESSED FAUNA EMERGE AND LAY ON SEDIMENT

MORTALITY OF TOLERANT FAUNA

MORTALITY OF SENSITIVE FAUNA

0.5

SEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DRASTICALLY ALTERD

FORMATION OF MICROBIAL MATS

0.2

HYDRODEN SULFIDE BUILDS IN WATER COLUMN

NO MACRO FAUNA SURVIVE

ANOXIA 0

CREATION OF HYPOXIA

The following images on the right represent euthrophication through

figure 1.7

a sectional lense. Below are detailed descriptions of each figure.

Once the algae dies it sinks to the benthic layer of the water col-

algae blooms form within the top layer of the water umn and becomes a bacteria haven. column suffocating the salt water. once the algae dies, figure 1.4 figure 1.8 it sinks to the bottom and becomes a bacteria haven. Mainly occurring within 5 the to 10process meters, nutrient rich fresh water, con- depletes of bacteria eating the algae the of the bacteria eating the algae depletes the oxygen The process within area rendering it unsuitable for any the vicinity rendering it unsuitable for any marine life. sisting mainly of nitrogenoxygen and phosphorus drains through the missiswithin marine life. this reeks havoc on the fishing industry. sippi basin. figure 1.5

This last image shows the end result of the euthrophication pro-

The excessive nutrients from the fresh water give the opportunity for

cess. All aquatic life that cannot survive in low oxygen levels will

algae blooms to generate during the optimal conditions.

flee or die if they are immobile, hence the name ‘dead zone’

figure 1.6

JAN

FEB

MAR

APRIL

MAY

At thisJUNE point, theJULY aquatic system maySEPT have areasOCTthat reach 0% AUG NOV

As the algae blooms form aquatic life becomes attracted to the abun-

saturation. A system with low concentration in the range be-

dance of food resulting in over population and suffocation.

tween 1 and 30% saturation is considered Hypoxic.

DEADZONE

figure 1.9

DEC

200

150

100

50 15

WATER LEVEL (FRESH WATER TOP LAYER)

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

43%

ALGAE BLOOMS RAPID GROWTH FROM RUNOFF NUTRIENTS(SUFFOCATES OCEAN)

37%

12%

BACTERIA HAVEN FROM DEAD ALGAE, RENDERS SURROUNDING WATERS UNSUITABLE FOR LIFE

RAPID RISE IN DEAD ZONES 7

14.007

CUMULATIVE NUMBER OF HYPOXIC SYSTEMS

NITROGEN

66%

INLAND CAUSES

EXCESSIVE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS RUNOFF

9,000

8,000

7,000 AUG

SEPT

OCT

6,000

NOV

100% SATURATION

DEC

7 to 8 mg/l

NORMAL ACTIVITY & BEHAVIOR 3 to 4

5,000 SEA DEPTH

MOBILE FAUNA BEGIN TO MIGRATE TO HIGHER AREAS

WINDS & STORMS

4,000

3,000

SHRIMPS AND CRABS ABSENT

2,000

STRESSED FAUNA EMERGE AND LAY ON SEDIMENT

MORTALITY OF TOLERANT FAUNA

7 98

8 98

9 98

0 99

1 99

1.5

FISH ABSENT

FAUNA UNABLE TO ESCAPE INTIATE SURVIVAL BEHAVIORS

1,000

2.0

BURROWING STOPS

action plan

AVOIDANCE BY FISH

HYPOXIA

2 99

3 99

4 99

5 99

6 99

7 99

8 99

1.0

0.5

MORTALITY OF SENSITIVE FAUNA

FORMATION OF MICROBIAL MATS

99 00 001 002 003 004 005 006 007 008 009 010 011 012 013 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 19 20

SEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DRASTICALLY ALTERD

0.2

NO MACRO FAUNA SURVIVE

HYDRODEN SULFIDE BUILDS IN WATER COLUMN

ANOXIA

Hypoxia inHYPOXIA the Gulf of Mexico -GULF OF--MEXICO

of Mexico every year.1 The two nutrients responsible for blooms to

ANNUAL ASSESMENT

occur are not harmful toxins, rather they are excess: Phosphorus,

The largest recurring hypoxic zone in the coastal waters of North

Nitrogen. As for phosphorus the total accumulates from 43% ag-

America is located along the continental shelf of Louisiana and Texas

riculture, 37% animal waste, 12% urban, and 8% natural runnoff.

adjacent to the mouth of the Mississippi and Atchafalaya River Basin

In terms of nitrogren the total sums up to 66% agriculture, 5% an-

(MARB). This river basin drains approximately 40% of the contiguous

imal waste, 9% urban, and 4% natural runnoff. In addition, river

United States and delivers runoff with elevated nutrient levels from

engineering plays a very crucial role in generating larger hypoxic

America‘s agricultural heartland to the Gulf of Mexico. The discharge

systems. Molding and shaping the Mississippi river actually begins

of treated sewage from urban areas combined with agricultural run-

to thrust the fresh water further into the Gulf of Mexico. Typically,

off deliver nitrogen into the Gulf JAN c. 1.7 million tons FEB of potassium and MAR APRIL

the water the basin wouldJULY settle its excess nutriMAY draining through JUNE AUG

EXC

WINDS & STORMS

+ AUG

SHRIMPS AND CRABS ABSENT

+ SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

FROM MONTHS OF MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBERVVVAV

WINDS & STORMS

STRESSED FAUNA EMERGE AND LAY ON SEDIMENT

+ figure 1.10

1.5

100% SATURATION 1.0 7 to 8 mg/l

FISH ABSENT

FAUNA UNABLE TO ESCAPE INTIATE SURVIVAL BEHAVIORS

MORTALITY OF SENSITIVE FAUNA

NORMAL ACTIVITY & BEHAVIOR MORTALITY OF TOLERANT FAUNA MOBILE FAUNA BEGIN TO MIGRATE TO HIGHER AREAS SEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DRASTICALLY ALTERD

BURROWING STOPS

CLIMATIC CAUSES SEA DEPTH

2.0

SHRIMPS AND CRABS NO MACRO FAUNA SURVIVE ABSENT BURROWING STOPS

STRESSED FAUNA EMERGE AND LAY ON SEDIMENT

MORTALITY OF TOLERANT FAUNA

SEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DRASTICALLY ALTERD

3 to 4 0.5 2.0 0.2 1.5

AVOIDANCE BY FISH FORMATION OF MICROBIAL HYPOXIA MATS

FISH ABSENT HYDRODEN SULFIDE BUILDS IN WATER COLUMN FAUNA UNABLE TO ESCAPE INTIATE SURVIVAL ANOXIA BEHAVIORS

0 1.0

0.5

0.2

NO MACRO FAUNA SURVIVE

MORTALITY OF SENSITIVE FAUNA

FORMATION OF MICROBIAL MATS

HYDRODEN SULFIDE BUILDS IN WATER COLUMN

ANOXIA 0

figure 1.11

figure 1.12

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

figure 1.13

DEADZONE

SEA DEPTH

2012

2013

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

DUE TO STRONG WINDS IN THE GULF, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED BY

EXPECTED AREA: 7,286 SQ. M. TOTAL: 5,840 SQ. M.

20%

29.1°N _ 93°W

28°N _ 94.3°W

29°N _ 94.8°W

27.5°N _ 95.7°W

27°N _ 96.5°W

Hypoxia experiment platforms { 1-5X }

~ networking data, harvesting/cultivating algae. multiple platforms according to how severe the oxygen depletion is yearly.

ents into marsh lands and other small river tailings, now construction

(2013) due to strong winds in the gulf, hypoxic zone diminished by

along the river has haulted this natural landscape infrastructural sys-

20%. The total expected area for this year by the NOAA was at 7,286

tem to a certain extent.

sq. m. yet the actual total came to 5,840 sq. m. Fig. 1.12: (2011) again, due to a drought, hypoxic zone diminished significantly. Hypoxic History

The dead zone of the Gulf of Mexico is actually a very ephemeral phe-

However, this system was very substantial. Fig. 1.13: (2002) largest hypoxic system ever documented.

nomenon. Looking back at figures 1.10 - 1.13 the NOAA has mapped the area of the hypoxic system for every year. Fig. 1.10: (2012) due to

The Systems Symptoms

a drought, hypoxic zone diminished significantly. This system was ac-

Hypoxia effectively reduces the available marine habitat, which

tually at a record low when referring to the chart on pg 16. Fig. 1.11:

is a significant concern because the Gulf of Mexico supports over

2011

2002

LARGEST HYPOXIC SYSTEM EVER DOCUMENTED

Mississippi R.

Atcha falaya R.

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

28.6°N _ 91.5°W

30.1°N _ 88.9°W

28.9°N _ 89.5°W

40% of the nation’s commercial fishing with typical annual yields of

tivities and tourism. The map above represents the network in-

more than a billion pounds of fish with a total market value of around

frastructural system of hypoxic zones over the years overlayed

$700 million.2 Dwindling fish stocks and increased travel distances to

from the data collected by the NOAA which reveals the pinpoint

access fertile water has resulted in decreasing fuel efficiency across

areas of hypoxia severity. Each red circle represents an offshore

the global fishing industry, which consumes approximately 50 billion

petroleum platform, clearly the fossil fuel business is not help-

liters of fuel per year. In addition, low oxygen levels in the Gulf cre-

ing the situation

ate a benthic layer on the ocean bottom that is dominated by metal or sulfur reduction bacteria, which contribute to stark color and odor difference in the hypoxic zones.4 The resulting smell and discoloration is objectionable and can have detrimental effects on recreational ac-

1. NOAA, 2012 2. NOAA, 2009 3. Tyedmers et al., 2005 4. Chih-Ting Kuo, 2010

DEADZONE

29°N _ 92.3°W

7,000

35 35

6,000

-- -

APRIL

MAR

MAY

JUNE

JULY

15 AUG

20FROM 20 4,000 FROM MONTHS FROM OFMONTHS MAY THROUGH OF MONTHS MAYSEPTEMBERVVVAV THROUGH FROM OF MONTHS MAY SEPTEMBERVVVAV THROUGH OF MAY SEPTEMBERVVVAV THROUGH SEPTEMBERVVVAV

2,000

10 10

1,000

5 5

0 87

0 09

TEMP

PRECIPITATION

action plan

J J1

F 1F

M1M

+JJ

A1 A 1 M1 M 2

J J2

A A2

S 2S

Diatom Diatom

GULF OF MEXICO HYPOXIA

Phytoplankton Phytoplankton

+O O

12 013

2 NN

80 80

J Fnitzschioides M Thalassionema Thalassionema nitzschioides SEPT OCT

N 0 0

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG

SEPT

HS OF MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBERVVVAV

Benthic Benthiczone zoneaeration aeration TEMP

PRECIPITATION

SEA DEPTH

Aeration Aeration through through waterfall waterfall from from surface surface to to bottom bottom water water column column mixing mixing creating creating natural natural convection convection to to break break thethe thermocline thermocline

20 20

10 10 Depth(m) Depth(m)

Depth(m) Depth(m)

10 10

30 30 40 40

18~45 18~45

Phytoplankton Phytoplankton

NO MACRO FAUNA NO MACRO SURVIVE FAUN NO

2~20 2~20

66%

Benthic zone aeration

{ ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 }

light OCT

NOV

20 30

MOBILE FAUNA BEGIN MIGRATE TO HIGHER ARE

WINDS & STORMS

40 50

SHRIMPS AND CRA ABSE

BURROWING STO

light light

20 20 30 30

nutrients nutrients

10 20

light

STRESSED FAUNA EMER AND LAY ON SEDIME

ww ataete r srusu rfrafcac ee

MORTALITY OF TOLERA FAU

SEDIMENT GEOCHEMIS DRASTICALLY ALTE

40 nutrients

nutrients nutrients

NO MACRO FAUNA SURV

50 50

FROM MONTHS OF MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBERVVVAV

DEC

40 40

50 CLIMATIC 50 CAUSES

Karenia Karenia brevis brevis

DRASTICALLY DRASTICALL ALTERD

nutrients

Depth(m)

light light

0 0

{ ~{ University ~ University of of Illinois Illinois at at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, 2010 2010 } }

HYPOXIA

A 10~110 M J J A 10~110 NOVSEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DEC SEDIMENT GEOC SED

Aeration through waterfall from surface to bottom water column mixing creating natural convection to break the thermocline

TIC CAUSES

0 0

MORTALITY OF MORTALITY TOLERANT OFMT FAUNA

EXCESSIVE NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS RUNOFF

Depth(m)

MAR

STRESSED FAUNA STRESSED EMERGE FAUN STR AND LAY ON AND SEDIMENT LAY ON S

INLAND CAUSES

0 FEB

N/A N/A

Chaetoceros calcitrans calcitrans 0 Chaetoceros

Picocyanobacteria Picocyanobacteria

JAN

6~9 6~9 Rhizosolenium Rhizosolenium Diatom <2<2 Picoplankton Picoplankton Average Average PHOSPHORUS 40 40 Phytoplankton 43% N/A N/A37% Synechococcus Synechococcus Picocyanobacteria 30 30 2 2 Chlorophyceae Chlorophyceae Nannochloris Nannochloris SEA DEPTH WINDS & STORMS 20 20 14.007 Dinoflagellate Dinoflagellate

-- -

Diatom Diatom average average

30 30

30.97

NITROGEN

Size(μm) Size(μm)

5 Skeletonema Skeletonema costatum costatum

10 10

HYPOXIA ANNUAL ASSESMENT

60 60 50 50

CLIMATIC CLIMATIC CAUSES CLIMATIC CAUSES CLIMATIC CAUSES CAUSES 15 15

80 80

25 25

3,000

70 70

30 30

FEB

5,000

- -

90 90

Depth(m)

40 40

diatom and other(%) diatom and other(%)

8,000

HYPOXIA HYPOXIA HYPOXIA HYPOXIA

picocyanobacteria(%) picocyanobacteria(%)

45 45

9,000

0 0

Depth(m) Depth(m)

10 10

light light

20 20 30 30

Pelagic planklivores

Algae Depth Growth

tthhee rrmmoo cclilnin ee Algae Typologies

Algae growth depends on several factors including: temperature, 40 40

In the Gulf of Mexico, diatoms are the dominant biomass commu-

nutrients 5 - 10m), and storms. However, alnutrients precipitation, sea depth(usually

nities of many marine and estuarine areas, particularly in spring.

gal communities are not always floating at the surface. Algae require

Diatoms and other phytoplankton estimated to be 40% of the Medusae are tentacle nippers

both light and nutrients to grow phototrophically, and therefore po-

amount in January and February. Picocyanobacteria are the domi-

sition themselves in the water column to find conditions where both

nant species for most of the time, from May to November.

light and nutrient concentrations are sufficient.1

Dominant communities in the Gulf of Mexico from 1990-1995.3 The

However, in the ocean the light sufficient zones and nutrient suffi-

abundance of diatoms and other algal species are indicated by left

50 50

Pelagic Pelagic planklivores planklivores

Benthic non-selective carnivores

cient zones are not necessarily co-located. Algae grow best at a depth

non-selective carnivores vertical axis, the abundanceBentho-pelagic of picocyanobacteria shows in right

where favorable light and nutrient conditions intersect. Therefore, at

vertical axis.

the location near the coast or estuary where there is strong mixing throughout the whole water column, the algae usually have highest Medusae tentacle tentacle nippers nippers densityMedusae at the ocean surface.2

Benthic Benthic non-selective non-selective carnivores carnivores

1. Sutor, 2007 2. Chih-Ting Kuo, 2010 3. Dortch et al., 2001

Benthic macro-mobile carnivores

bebnen thtihcic zoznon ee

Macro-worm carnivores

Dominant communites of algae in the Gulf throughout the year

100

picocyanobacteria(%)

diatom and other(%)

~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010

Diatom Phytoplankton Picocyanobacteria

Common algae species biochemical composition

Species

Chlorophyll(%)

Protein(%)

Carbohydrate(%)

Lipid(%)

Ash(%)

Size(Îźm)

Diatom average

1.5

18.0

N/A

Skeletonema costatum

1.8

20.8

6.9

Chaetoceros calcitrans

1.5

6.0

Thalassionema nitzschioides

0.95

8.8

N/A

10~110

Rhizosolenium

N/A

28.7

34.8

N/A

6~9

Picoplankton Average

1~3

56.1

19.8

16.9

7.2

Synechococcus

N/A

15.0

N/A

Chlorophyceae Nannochloris

1.6

23.0

Karenia brevis

5.8

20.9

46.5

11.6

15.11

18~45

Phytoplankton

N/A

20.8

22.3

45.7

11.2

2~20

Dinoflagellate

DEADZONE

~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010

PRECEDE

Precedents By no means is this thesis demanding that all inland agribusiness or offshore petroleum production be discontinued nor be repurposed, but rather fostered or driven into the direction of architectural adoption. The precedents that have been most important to the dead zone were maritime structures for hydro-carbon based workforces. In particular, the offshore petroleum platform called a SPAR. Despite the hazardous nature of offshore oil extraction, this resource is clearly of high demand carrying not only the epitome of greed from big oil supermajors such as BP, Shell, or Texaco, but simply the need for oil considering the vast infrastructural systems residing inland. Currently in the 2012 US energy use poll, 37.13% of energy used is petroleum. However, out of all the energy only 42% is actually used and the other 58% is wasted primarily from electricity generation. Workforce dystopias like Stalin’s Neft Daslari have been created solely upon the means of producing petroleum, now the constructs are left as environmental ruins rotting away in the Azerbaijan Sea. Currently in the Gulf of Mexico, 3,858 American oil platforms are operating, not including deep-water wells. In terms of future development, if America were to become an oil independent nation, removing the platforms solely off the coast of Louisiana will estimate to costs over 4 billion dollars. For instance, in 1995 the cost of removing all platform rig structures entirely in British waters was estimated at £1.5 billion. Additionally, the cost of removing all structures, including pipelines, in what was called a “clean sea” approach was estimated at £3 billion. Some institutes have suggested an alternative to deconstruction, which is to utilize the abandoned infrastructure as artificial reefs. According to United States Marine Biologist Milton Love, the implementation of artificial reefs have been havens for many of the species of fish which are otherwise declining in regions such as the Gulf. In 1979, a nationwide program called Rigs-to-Reefs (RTR) was developed by the former Minerals Management Service (MMS) to turn decommissioned offshore oil and petroleum rigs into artificial reefs by severing the rig from the bottom using explosives (also known as toppling). MMS research shows fish densities are 20 to 50 times higher around oil and gas platforms than in nearby open water. Multiple companies have donated over 200

DEADZONE

platforms to the effort today.

STALIN’S OIL WORKFORCE

NEFT DASLARI Stalin’s Neft Daslari RIG CONNECTIVITY

194

DERRICK

ACCOMODATION

PRINCIPALITY OF

SEALAND Principality of Sealand

EFT

SLA

POPULATION

GULF OF MEXICO: LUXURY

Hotel Oil RigHOTEL

(Top left: Stalin’s Neft Daslari. Middle Left: Principality of Sealand off the coast of england. A repurposed sea fort. Bottom left: repurposed oil rig to be a luxury hotel in the Gulf of Mexico.)

Beginning in the late 19th century at Grand Lake, Ohio traditional oil drilling achieved its first leap: surpassing the constraint of water. Since then, the offshore oil drilling evolution accelerated rapidly overcoming variables such as establishing foundation to

-- Offshore Platform Typologies --

the sea floor, remaining structurally sound within hostile seas, the assembly processes, buoyancy, and disaster (oil spill / fire). Today the forefront of offshore platforms are revolving around semi-sub-

In order to build on the design criteria, this proposal analyizes a se-

mersible structures ( Jackups, drill- ships, semi-subs, barges, and

ries of offshore oil platform technologies beginning with its earliest

SPAR platforms) that offer a more flexible resource extraction net-

methodologies.

work.

FIRS

PERM

T OF

ANE

JACK

-UP

ARTI

CULA

SEM

I-SU

SPAR

BME

TED

FSHO

NT P

RE R

LATF

ORM

RIG

COLU

RSIB

PLAT

FORM FORWARD

Oil Rig Evolution WALKAROUND MONKEYBOARD

WINDLASS

HELI-FUEL TANKS

FLARE BOOM

WINDLASS

DERRICK MAIN STORE

HELI-DECK

AUX. MACHINE ROOM

ENGINE

PILOT HOUSE

PORT PIPE RACK

lar steel is built on its side and floated outMAIN to its DECK location ARRANGEMENT as well.

Nº 1 LIFEBOAT

Self Contained Fixed Platforms

legs.

CEMENT TANKS 65 FT. DRILLING DRAUGHT

form reaching 800 ft in depth, and the tubular steel reaching 1100 ft.

WELL TEST EQUIPMENT STOWAGE

Nº 2(S) COLUMN

The concrete gravity is better for deeper more hostile sea because of CHAIN LOCKERS

MUD LOGGING UNIT

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

Submersibles

5P. D.O.TK.

PUMP ROOM

6P. D.O.TK.

PORT HULL

Reaching 100-175 feet of water emerging from the swamp barge BALLAST

BALLAST

25’-0”

PLAN VIEW 260’-0”

ROTARY TABLE DRILL FLOOR

116’-0”

PUMP ROOM

SET BACK

Sinking carefully using steel buoyancy bottles attached to the

CEMENT TANKS (TENSIONER COMPRESSSOR BOTTLES IN PORT

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

WIRE LINE UNIT

SET BACK

Nº 1(S) COLUMN

MESS ROOM

DRY STORE

base which provide storage for oil awaiting transport. The tubu-

BENTONITE TANKS

In this category there are two typologies: the concrete gravity plat-

FORWARD

GALLEY

SACK ROOM

RISER STOWAGE

ment, and accomodation for the platform crew. BARYTE TANKS

MUD PROCESSING AREA

Most contain a ring of cylindrical concrete tanks surrounding the

SACK STORE

DIAGONAL BRACE

MUD PUMP ROOM

DIVING SPREAD

ply, mud pumps, mud pits, pipe racks, storage space, misc. equip-

MAIN DECK

STARBOARD PIPE RACK

pillars). Built in a drydock, towed in an upright position and sunk.

HELIDECK

hostile seas. The tender is moored to the rig and provides power supEMERGENCY GENERATOR ROOM

PIPE DRAGWAY

BALLAST

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

BALLAST

PUMP ROOM

LOWER HULL ARRANGEMENT

BALLAST

DIESEL OIL TANK

DEADZONE

WINDLASS 1&2

ACCOMODATION

LOCKER & CHANGING ROOM

MOONPOOL

Usually containing a floating drilling tender and are unsuitable for PIPE RACK

ENGINE

its stability and method of construction (continuous pour to form

STARBOARD CRANE

DRILL FLOOR

ENGINE

AFT

Fixed Platforms

PORT CRANE

DIVING BELL

LOWER ACCOMOD

CINEMA

PILOT HOUSE

RISER TENSIONER

REC ROOM

ENGINE

MACHINE SHOP

CHAIN LOCKER

BALLAST

STORE

SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE

THRUSTER NOZZLE

ANCHORS

BOLSTER

FAIRLEADERS

Nº 3(S) COLUMN

Nº 2 LIFEBOAT

WINDLASS 3&4

RISER TENSIONER

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

DIVING BELL

RISER TENSIONER

DIAGONAL BRACE

MAIN DECK

EMERGENCY GENERATOR ROOM

DRILL FLOOR

PUMP ROOM

260’-0”

SACK STORE

PORT CRANE

DERRICK

MONKEYBOARD

WALKAROUND

Nº 2(S) COLUMN

CEMENT TANKS (TENSIONER COMPRESSSOR BOTTLES IN PORT

BARYTE TANKS

PIPE RACK

STARBOARD CRANE

CHAIN LOCKERS

ACCOMODATION

WINDLASS 1&2 PILOT HOUSE

Nº 1 LIFEBOAT

25’-0”

Nº 1(S) COLUMN

CEMENT TANKS 65 FT. DRILLING DRAUGHT

BENTONITE TANKS

116’-0”

HELIDECK

HELI-DECK

WELL TEST EQUIPMENT STOWAGE

RISER STOWAGE

PORT PIPE RACK

DEADZONE

PLAN VIEW

DRILL FLOOR

ROTARY TABLE

SET BACK

PIPE DRAGWAY

PILOT HOUSE

SET BACK

FORWARD

MUD LOGGING UNIT

WIRE LINE UNIT

STARBOARD PIPE RACK DIVING SPREAD

MOONPOOL

MACHINE SHOP

MAIN STORE

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

BALLAST

PUMP ROOM

BALLAST

PUMP ROOM

LOWER HULL ARRANGEMENT

BALLAST

PORT HULL

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

DIESEL OIL TANK

BALLAST

6P. D.O.TK.

5P. D.O.TK.

BALLAST

DRY STORE

FORWARD

LOWER ACCOMODATION

BALLAST

CHAIN LOCKER

BALLAST

CHAIN LOCKER

GALLEY

MESS ROOM

LOCKER & CHANGING ROOM

CINEMA

REC ROOM

WINDLASS

MUD PUMP ROOM

ENGINE

HELI-FUEL TANKS

SACK ROOM

MUD PROCESSING AREA

AUX. MACHINE ROOM

FLARE BOOM

MAIN DECK ARRANGEMENT

AFT

WINDLASS

SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE

JACK-UP RIG

Jack-up Platform EXTRACTION PROCESS AND INSTALLATION

which rests on the bottom by ballasting down. This causes problems

percharged diesel engines.

with underwater currents. Only seen in the Gulf of Mexico and Nigeria. Semi-Submersibles

Precedent to the Semi-Sub.

BPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deepwater Horizon. Most versatile and mobile of all drilling Self-Elevating (Jack-up) Platforms

platforms. Using ballast to sink the hull slightly mitigating hostile

Containing a main floating hull with large truss legs and spud cans

seas. Contains a derrick, accomodation for the crew, pontoons for

reaching the sea floor to thrust the hull 20 meters above sea level.

ballasting, and other specifics not included in most rigs. There has

Reaching depths of 400 ft. meaning the the legs protruding through

been issues with this particular floating design due to movement

the hull must be 600 ft. tall. Most rigs are not equiped with propolsion,

cause by hostile seas. Hostile seas creates verticies around the

meaning they have to be towed by special ships. These platforms are

supporting legs of the structure which forces the platform to rock

only used to drill the well. Once drilled, the well is plugged and the

back and forth. This motion has the tendancy to rupture pipelines

jack-up moves on to another site. Then a permanent rig is placed over

or even the drill shaft itslef which may be the reason why massive

the well to extract oil. Accomodation includes 38 - 2 men cabins, 2 - 1

oil leaks occur.

man cabins, and 1 - 3 man hospital. Power supply: 3 - 12 cylinder su-

(see pg. 26 - 27 for more detailed drawings of semi-submersibles)

WELL TEST WELL TEST EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT STOWAGE STOWAGE

PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

CHAIN LOCKER

5P. D.O.TK.

PUMP ROOM

6P. D.O.TK.

PORTPORT HULLHULL

PORT HULL

CHAIN CHAIN LOCKER LOCKER CHAIN LOCKER

BALLAST

N PLAN VIEW VIEW

BALLAST

BALLAST BALLAST

BALLAST

PROPULSION PROPULSION BALLAST BALLAST MACHINERY MACHINERY ROOM ROOM

BALLAST PROPULSION MACHINERY ROOM

PUMP ROOM

DIESEL OIL TANK

BALLAST

BALLAST BALLAST

BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST

PUMP ROOM PUMP ROOM DIESEL OIL DIESEL OIL BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST BALLAST TANK TANK

BALLAST

LOWER LOWER HULLHULL ARRANGEMENT ARRANGEMENT

LOWER HULL ARRANGEMENT

+ +

+ + construction

CONSTRUCTION

TOW TO SITE

construction construction

+ +

tow to tow site to site

+ + +

tow to site tow to site

+ +

DROP LEGS TO SEABED drop legs to sea bed

drop legs drop to sea legsbed to sea bed

+ +

RAISE HULL ABOVE SEA LEVEL raise hull 20m above sea level

raiseraise hull 20m hull above 20m above sea level sea level

+ +

perpare perpare derrick derrick for drilling for drilling

+ +

perpareperpare derrickderrick for drilling for drilling

CAP WELL AND RELOCATE cap well, cap move well,tomove new site to new site

Spar Platform

field, filled with water in specific ballast positions in order to tilt

Derives from logs used as buoys in shipping that are moored in place

the structure upright. Second, the platform is lifted by two large

vertically. The SPAR platform uses simple engineering techniques

cranes from barges onto the SPAR unit. To prevent top siding

involved with geometry, weight, and tension to mitigate hostile seas

spud cams are depolyed where air is sucked out and the cap

and create a safer environment. This typology, forefront of offshore

then drives itself into the ground. Furthermore, to mitigate sway

petroleum extraction, reaches the deepest oil fields currently up to

from hostile seas strakes are applied. These strakes tames the

2,438 meters costing up to $3 Billion. However, these structures haul

verticies making the oil platform spill proof as well as sea sick

in an incredible amount of oil per day using techniques such as di-

proof. Last, a tank located at the base of the belly is filled with

rectional drilling. After the SPAR is made in a dry dock. The assembly

permanent ballast, or 13,000 tons of pulverized iron ore offering

process only takes 2 days. The large steel cylinder is towed to the oil

a low center of gravity. The SPAR platform is essentially hurri-

cap well, move to new site

WEWE WANT WANT YOU YOU

WE W DEADZONE

PREPARE DERRICK FOR DRILLING

constr

permanent ballas

Spar Platform

SPAR ASSEMBLY

cane, 30 meter wave, and almost bomb proof. Subtleties in form may

Cost

start to occur according to appropriate depth and location of the plat-

Drilling an offshore well can cost ten times as much as drilling a

form.

land well, and an operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expenses might well run to $100,000

An engineering firm called Goodfellow Associates Limited have also

a day for 100 days or more. The overall costs of any exploratory

developed the idea of a semi-spar platform for the potential of small

drilling venture can be grouped under three main headings: initial

oilfield extraction processes. The design conept consists of a ring-

costs, equipement costs and operating costs. Initial costs cover

shaped buoyancy structure with six ballast columns below. The deck

the preparatory work necessary before any drilling starts, includ-

structure is supported on the six piercing columns. The flarebooms,

ing seismic surveying, the purchase of a license and the annual

helideck, and tanker mooring point are all able to rotate. In the op-

licence rental fee. Most offshore operators hire the services of

erating condition stability is provided by a 12 point mooring system.

specialist contractors to carry out nearly every function onboard a

MODULE AGGREGATION MODULE AGGREGATION

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRA

(TY

+ +

+ STRAKE

STRAKE STRAKE

construction

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY

(TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5construction RINGS) construction

tow to5 site (TYP. MACRO MODULE: RINGS) tow to site

CONSTRUCTION RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

TOW TO SITEFOR STABILITY STRAKES ADDED (TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS)

+ + +

+ +

ballast into position tow to site

ballast into position

tow to site

ballast into position

BALLAST INTO POSITION

PERMANENT BALLAST FOR STABILIZATION permanent ballast for stabalization

R ASSEMBLY permanent ballast for stabalization permanent ballast for stabalization

+ +

place main operating deck place main operating deck

+ +

deploy spud cans place main operating deck

MAIN OPERATING DECK place main operating deck

deploy spud cans deploy spud cans

DEADZONE

STEEL COLUMN

STEEL/CONCRETE COLUMN

80m

120m

SPAR PLATFORM

TYPOLOGY WITH GROUND CONNECTION

Semi-Spar Platforms

CONCRETE COLUMN

STEEL COLUMN

160m

200m

DEADZONE

BUOYANCY MODULE

BALLAST MODULE

SQUARE PASSAGE

Precast-Concrete Modules PRE-CAST CONCRETE MODULES ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM SAME MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRE-

CAST CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

SQUARE PASSAGE

BUOYANCY MODULE

BALLAST MODULE

DOUBLE WALLED PIPE

POST TENSIONED CONDUITS

OCTOGONAL SPAR

Interior Geometry

Steel-Truss Modules

STEEL TRUSS MODULES ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM A MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRECAST

CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

drilling unit including the actual drilling operation itself, and their own

however, an important consideration in the design or selection will

equipment costs are therefore low. A few Majors such as Shell and

be the stability and required payload. The stability will generally

BP, however, still own their own rigs, unlike most oil companies which

be governed by the requirements of a regulatory authority but the

hire drilling contractorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; units and crews on a time basis. The latest

required payload will depend mainly on the range of operations to

semi-submersibles, which can drill holes 25,000 feet deep, cost more

be carried out. Many operations can be carried out including all or

than $110 million to build, even before the drilling tools are put on-

most of the following: production, limited storage, water injection,

board. 1

gas lift or reinjection, pigging or through flowline, full workover, drilling, subsea system maintenance. Concrete is often used in Geometry

construction which is ideally suited to resist the hydrostatic com-

The geometry of any RINGS oil construct will depend on several aspects; STACKED STAGGARED

pressive forces and ship impact forces without deterioration in a

200m

200m OCTOGONAL SPAR

OCTOGONAL SPAR

200m

REGATION

MODULE AGGREGATION MODULE AGGREGATION

PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

RINGS RINGS STACKED STAGGAR

REGATION

MODULE AGGREGATION MODULE AGGREGATION

PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

RINGS STACKED STAGGAR RINGS

STRAKE

REGATION

MODULE AGGREGATION MODULE AGGREGATION

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY STRAKES ADDED FORSTRAKE STABI

REGATION

MODULE AGGREGATION MODULE AGGREGATION

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY STRAKES ADDED FORSTRAKE STABI

(TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS)

(TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS (TYP.

tenance. In addition, each module would serve one of two func-

+ platform that is utilized + The construction of the SPAR in the +Dead

+ Some may have permanent + + tions: buoyancy, ballast. pullverized

Zone architectural intervention would follow the drawings above. The

iron ore for a more secure structure. The drawings on the right

first choice would be to select an appropriate interior geometry shown

represent the assembly process or accumulation of the modules

on the far right, whether it be circular, hexagonal with filleted edges,

before the strake is added

or square depending on the structure that will be inserted. However, the base is crucial when determining the depth of the context and the construction to site ratio from buoyancy to ballast.construction These modules can eithertowbe pre-cast

construction

concrete modules or steel truss modules. The steel truss modules construction

construction

tow to site

would certainly be lighter or much more malliable in terms of main-

tow to site

DEADZONE

severe marine environment. 2

tow to site

ballast into position

balla

1. Maclachlan tow to site tow to site 2. Goodfellow Associates

ballast into position

balla

PROPOSA

STEP 4: ALGE DIES AND FALLS TO BOTTOM WATER CO.

STEP 5: OX

Proposal 10m

As mentioned before in the abstract, Maritime institutes have been attempting to resolve this issue with larger infrastructural landscape interventions including: artificial wet lands, reefs, oyster beds, diminishing fertilizer use, etc. However, Completely diminishing dead zones, es15m pecially the systems that pose the most threat, would involve incredible global engineering

and cultural shifts. This proposal is not attempting to completely resolve the issue of hypoxic systems. It accepts the inexhaustible supply of rich nutrients as a critical gesture of visibility catering to the affects of the social political agenda inland. Meaning, this reoccurring issue of hypoxia would be utilized as an opportunity to deploy a network of interventions offering a platform or tangible interface for maritime institutes to utilize as a catalyst to generate soft boundaries of oxygenated waters for animal life attraction, harvesting algae, as well as progressing data throughout the Louisiana-Texas shelf for the understanding of dead zones.

Hypoxia Mitigation

(Below is the time-based architecture to adapt Secondarysequence shell insertedfor intothe the main shell, the interstitial spaceto the context) becomes the accomodation. The adjacent ends are utilized for production space or deploying tools for harvesting or cultivating algae.

CULT I E

I N

O M

GULF OF MEXICO DEAD ZONE

APR

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY

DEADZONE

ALGAE HARVESTING

CULTIV AT OCT NO IO V

JAN

ALGAE CULTIVATION / BIOMASS

/ HAR VE ION S JUL AT N AU T U I

20112011 DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE

EXPECTED AREA: 7,286 SQ. M.

28°N _ 94.3°W

alaya R.

20%

29.1°N _ 93°W

28°N _ 94.3°W

2002 2002

LARGEST HYPOXIC SYSTEM EVER LARGEST HYPOXIC SYSTEM EVER DOCUMENTED

DUE TO DIMINISHED A DROUGHT,SIGNIFICANTLY HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

DOCUMENTED

Mississippi R.

DUE TO STRONG WINDS IN THE GULF,

DUE TO STRONG WINDS THE DIMINISHED GULF, 7,286 HYPOXICINZONE BY EXPECTED AREA: TOTAL: 5,840SQ. SQ.M. M. HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED BY TOTAL: 5,840 SQ. M.

Mississippi R.

2013

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE

Atchafa laya R.

2012

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE SIGNIFICANTLY DIMINISHED DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

Atchaf

2012

28.6°N _ 91.5°W

29°N _ 94.8°W

27.5°N _ 95.7°W 30.1°N _ 88.9°W

27.5°N _ 95.7°W

30.1°N _ 88.9°W

27°N _ 96.5°W

29°N _ 92.3°W

28.9°N _ 89.5°W

Hypoxia experiment platforms { 1-5X }

~ networking data, harvesting/cultivating algae. multiple platforms according to how severe the oxygen depletion is yearly.

Hypoxia experiment platforms { 1-5X }

~ networking data, harvesting/cultivating algae. multiple platforms according to how severe the oxygen depletion is yearly.

2015

2020

2015

2020

2025

Maritime research facilities

{ TYP. }

~ Required programs inland

2050

2025

2050

-- Hypoxia Networked Infrastructures --

{ TYP. }

~ Required programs inland

{ TYP. }

~ Within hypoxic context

curring areas. The act of collecting hypoxia causingALGAE algaeCOLLECTION could po-

ALGAE CULTURE TANKS

Maritime research facilities

Additional programs

WATER TANKS: CULTURE BIVALVE LARVAE AND MICRO ALGAE WITH VARIOUS TEMPERATURES, SALINITY, AND FILTRATION PARAMETERS

WORKtentially STATIONS

Here we revisit the network infrastructural system of hypoxic zones.

ALGAE BLOOMS WOULD BE COLLECTED BY THE reduce dead zonesAdditional by 5%.1programs Yes, this is very insignificant { TYP. } ARCHITECTURE AS A MODE OF ENERGY GENER-

GENERALLY SEAWATER RESEARCH STATIONS PROVIDE 15 WORK STATIONS

~ Within hypoxic context

ATION: BIODIESEL

in the global aspect; however, this would be coupled with other

The top map is theSEAWATER overlayed data collected by the NOAA which reQUARANTINE

modalities of mitigation. In addition, this is the only attempt for

veals the ALGAE pinpoint areas of hypoxia severity. These nodes could poCULTURE TANKS

remediation requiring occupation which demands an architectur-

SEAWATER QUARANTINE SYSTEM PROVIDING THE CAPABILITY TO CONDUCT WORK ON NONINDIGENOUS SPECIES (20’ DIAMETER MIN)

ALGAE COLLECTION

al intervention. Meaning, the occupation for algae cultivation and WATER TANKS: CULTURE BIVALVE tentially be the initial sitesLARVAE forAND intervention. This proposal implementsWORK ANALYTICAL LABORATORY ALGAE BLOOMS WOULD BE COLLECTED BY THE UPWELL AERATION STATIONS MICRO ALGAE WITH VARIOUS TEMPERATURES, ARCHITECTURE AS A MODE OF ENERGY GENERSALINITY, AND FILTRATION PARAMETERS collection as well as aeration. The architecture actsWATER as the beacon FO 3, EQUIPPED WITH FUME ATION: BIODIESEL WOULD BE CIRCULATED BY UPWELLING a time-based adaptive architecture offering several modalities for WORK STATION HOOD, FLOUROMETER, SPECTROPHOTOMETER, GENERALLY SEAWATER RESEARCH STATIONS BALANCES, AND WATER PURIFIPROVIDECENTRIFUGE, 15 WORK STATIONS

FIELD WORK EQUIPMENT

mitigation of hypoxia including: algae cultivation, algae harvesting, INCLUDING: ACOUSTIC DOPPLER VELOCIMETER, DREDGE, OTTER TRAWL, AND PLANKTON NET

SEAWATER QUARANTINE waters. For the months of hypoxia, the and the aeration oxygenated SEAWATER QUARANTINE SYSTEM PROVIDING

immediate would be harvesting algae blooms within reocTHEapproach CAPABILITY TO CONDUCT WORK ON NON-

BOTTOM LAYER NUTRIENTS WITH OXYGENATED

SURFACE LAYERS BREAKING THE THERMOor visual connection to this drastically increasing issue notTHEonly in CHAIN CLINE BENEFITING MARINE FOOD

CATION SYSTEM

the Gulf of Mexico, but in a Global understanding as well. Over the years and into 2050, the hypoxic systems could reduced signifi-

INDIGENOUS SPECIES (20’ DIAMETER MIN)

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY Atchafalaya R.

FIELD WORK EQUIPMENT

Mississippi R.

WORK STATION FO 3, EQUIPPED WITH FUME HOOD, FLOUROMETER, SPECTROPHOTOMETER, CENTRIFUGE, BALANCES, AND WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM

UPWELL AERATION WATER WOULD BE CIRCULATED BY UPWELLING BOTTOM LAYER NUTRIENTS WITH OXYGENATED SURFACE LAYERS BREAKING THE THERMO-

Algae Cultivation

{ OCT - APRIL }

~ Technique requiring quarantined space for algae growth and space for nutrient/photosynthesis deprivation for extraction of oils.

15m

Diatom Phytoplankton Picocyanobacteria

Diatom Phytoplankton

Picocyanobacteria

TI V

40 35

40 nutrients 50 Algae Cultivation

~ Technique requiring quarantined space for algae growth and space for nutrient/photosynthesis deprivation for extraction of oils.

80 70

40 nutrients

30 20

hypoxic

non-hypoxic

light

20 45

The hypoxic system has tripled its size in ten years, offshore oil extraction is beginning to diminish with the demand for clean energy rising

Diatom average

N/A

Skeletonema costatum

Chaetoceros calcitrans

Thalassionema nitzschioides

10~110

Rhizosolenium

6~9

Picoplankton Average

Synechococcus

N/A

Chlorophyceae Nannochloris

50 new platforms are now producing bio-mass

Picocyanobacteria

30μm

rfac

<2μm

BP to begin construction on the first large scale algae harvester in the gulf of mexico to mitigate hypoxia and generate bio-fuel

Dinoflagellate

US declares to open 500 new bio-fuel stations in the southeast

Diatom first woman Phytoplankton president of the

r su

BP to launch largest spar platform in history

local fisherman launch first aeration system for healthier aquacultural system Size(μm)

100

{ OCT - APRIL }

first hypoxia research facility launch in 2015 for an attempt to mitigate the dead zone in the gulf of mexico

Depth(m)

25 20

Depth(m)

/ HA R V ION ES JUL AT N AU T U I

F wa te

light

2~20

US begins to wipe clean abandoned oil wells in the gulf of mexico

US steps into office

picocyanobacteria(%)

18~45

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY

diatom and other(%)

CULTIV A

light

N/A

nochloris

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 } Aeration through waterfall from surface to bottom{ ~water column Dominant communites of algae in the Gulf throughout the year OF MEXICO mixingGULF creating natural convection to break the thermocline5 % DEAD ZONE

OCT

2020

hypoxia facility has shown instances of decreased area within the dead zone throughout the past five years

ALGAE HARVESTING

APR

6~9

{ ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 } Harvesting Algae seasonally

10~110

Benthic zone aeration

schioides

aglae receiver

ans

trolley system

<2μm

culture infrastructure

ALGAE CULTIVATION / BIOMASS

N/A

JAN

Size(μm)

quarantine pouch

30μm

CULT I

Algae receiver

Secondary shell inserted into the main shell, the interstitial space becomes the accomodation. The adjacent ends are utilized for production space or deploying tools for harvesting or cultivating algae.

Hypoxia Mitigation

Karenia brevis

18~45

Phytoplankton

2~20

Diatom Phytoplankton Picocyanobacteria

non-hypoxic

the

30 40 nutrients

Benthic zone aeration culture infrastructure

quarantine pouch 50

rmo

trolley system

{ ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 }

clin

Aeration through waterfall from surface to bottom water column mixing creating natural convection to break the thermocline

e Depth(m)

Harvesting Algae seasonally { ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 }

light

30 40

Dominant communites of algae in the Gulf throughout the year

nutrients

Pelagic planklivores

Depth(m)

nutrients

picocyanobacteria(%)

diatom and other(%)

Thalassionema nitzschioides

10~110

Rhizosolenium

6~9

Picoplankton Average

Synechococcus Pelagic planklivores 30 Chlorophyceae Nannochloris

Chaetoceros calcitrans

Bentho-pelagic non-selective carnivores

Diatom nutrients Phytoplankton

N/A

Diatom average

sur

aglae receiver

inspection / deprivation

fac

FIRS

Size(μm)

ter

100

Skeletonema costatum Benthic non-selective carnivores 50

PERM

T OF

ANE

Picocyanobacteria

FSHO

NT P

RE R

LATF

ORM

Algae receiver

30μm

Medusae tentacle nippers

light

Depth(m)

fac

water column

sur

hypoxic

the

rmo

JACK

-UP

<2μm

clin

ARTIC

ben

thic

N/A

ULAT

zon

ED C

water column

Depth(m)

RIG

OLUM

Dinoflagellate 18~45

Karenia brevis

2~20

Phytoplankton Medusae tentacle nippers

Benthic non-selective carnivores

ben

thic

Diatom Phytoplankton

zon

Picocyanobacteria

non-hypoxic

Bentho-pelagic non-selective carnivores

c zo

Macro-worm carnivores

Benthic macro-mobile carnivores

Macro-worm carnivores

SPAR

Benthic zone aeration

{ ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 } Aeration through waterfall from surface to bottom water column mixing creating natural convection to break the thermocline

cantly with effort within all modalites and possibly concentrated for 0

Depth(m)

light

30 40

ter

nutrients

fac

Mitigation

RSIB

PLAT

FORM

or what is known as a spar deriving from offshore petroleum fall attempting to break the thermocline boundary through natKYLE ALTMAN

ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT ural convection bringing higher oxygen levels back to the ben-

nutrients 50

BME

structures, which would activate an aeration system or water

sur

30 40

light

I-SU

Looking at the communities of algae growth in the gulf, one can see 0

light

water column

benefits in energy movements.

SEM

thic layer. In addition, there is potential to take advantage of

FIRS

PERM

this process, gravity could be an opportunity for collecting the JACK-UP R

inate the area even into the monththof However, there is the eroctober. mo c l ine opportunity to harvest diatoms and other phytoplankton during the

remaining algae on the surface. The architecture above would

Depth(m)

20 30 40

ARTIC

ULAT

nutrients

remaining seasons. As the algae dies, another mode of mitigation utiPelagic planklivores

Medusae tentacle nippers

1. Chih-Ting Kuo, 2010 I-SU

Benthic non-selective carnivores

thic

zon

OLUM

41 SEM

ben

ED C

SPAR

BME

RSIB

RE R

LATF

lizes an architecture encompassing the entirety of the water colum

FSHO

NT P

the hypoxia causing algae, called the cyanobacteria, begins to dom10

T OF

ANE

DEADZONE

Benthic macro-mobile carnivores

hypoxic

ORM

R first hypoxia research facility launch in 2015 for an attempt to mitigate the dead zone in the gulf of mexico

local fisherman launch first aeration system for healthier aquacultural system US declares to open 500 new bio-fuel stations in the southeast

Hypoxia Mitigation

The hypoxic system has tripled its size in ten years, offshore oil extraction is beginning to diminish with the demand for clean energy rising

2020

hypoxia facility has shown instances of decreased area within the dead zone throughout the past five years

US begins to wipe clean abandoned oil wells in the gulf of mexico

20 45

I BP to launch largest spar platform in history

50 new platforms are now producing bio-mass

first woman

15 20

APR

T GULF OF MEXICO I B DEAD ZONE N

OCT

ALGAE HARVESTING

US steps into office

president of the / BIOMASS ALGAE CULTIVATION

ULT

20 50

20 40 20 35

TIV

ALGAE CULTIVATION / BIOMASS

20 25

20 15

CULT IV A JAN

titial space ized for producing algae.

20 30

20 20

BP to begin construction on the first large scale algae harvester in the gulf of mexico to mitigate hypoxia and generate bio-fuel

25 20

15 20

ION

JUL

/ H

APR

MEXICO ONE

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY

ALGAE HARVESTING

ALGAE CULTIVATION / BIOMASS

2020

ARV E

fer a facility for cultivation systems at different salinity levels, tem-

and aeration could possibly enhance the global fishing industry,

peratures, and lighting conditions. Taking advantage of the buoyant

but more importantly the life cycles within the marine environment.

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY Algae Cultivation algae can begin to photosynthesize. In addition, harvesting algae can

The structure would be assembly using the techniques of the spar

~ Technique requiring quarantined space for algae growth andwould space for also occur during these months. One collect diatoms and phynutrient/photosynthesis deprivation for extraction of oils.

right, the spar would essentially act as the base or chassy for the first hypoxia research tool head inserted. Each â&#x20AC;&#x153;toolâ&#x20AC;? or unit for occupation would facility launchtoinbe 2015 for an attempt to mitigate the dead zone in the gulf of mexico

For the months of October through April, the architecture would of-

hypoxia facility has shown instances of decreased area within the dead zone throughout the past five In the end, Maritime institutes would have the opportunity to work first hypoxia research years facility launch in 2015 for within the context of hypoxic systems throughout the year, potenan attempt to mitigate the tially diminishing the area of dead zones through algae dead zoneharvesting in the gulf of mexico and cultivation for experimental use or a new market in bio-mass,

ALGAE HARVESTING

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY

be the retriever for hypoxia researchers. The combination of these ac-

tions would be extremely beneficial to the aquatic life within the area as well as the 5 potential % fishing industry.

ION AT N

context, the cultivation systems would be a deployable field where

{ OCT - APRIL }

toplankton for experimentation as opposed to hypoxia causing algae.

offshore petroleum platform. Referring to the drawings on the

local fisher aeration sy aquacultura

PLATFORM: SPAR ASSEMBLY

PLATFORM: SPAR HYPOXIA ASSEMBLY / FORCE CRITERIA / BUOYANCY

INSERT BASE insert hull male end

sunlight / view / opposition current

wind speeds at 150 mph

ASSEMBLE composite shellHULL

wave height at 90ft ~ Ivan

provide different necessities of accomodation according to the de-

community for a healthier aquaculture system with soft bound-

mographic. These units could potentially be for either researchers

aries of oxygenated water. Looking down the line 5 years later,

experimenting for a few months, fisherman utilizing the structure for

the pirate bay gets a hold of one these and uses it for a secure

aquaculture, or production corporations attempting to make transi-

network of internet laundering within a self sustaining algae

tions in energy.

harvesting architecture. In 2050, BP begins construction on the first large scale algae harvester in the gulf of mexico to mitigate Toward 2050

hypoxia as a front and to generate bio-fuel.

Ten years from now, these hypoxic satellites begins to show decreased area within the dead zone and new characters begin to arrive in the narrative. Local fisherman launch the first aeration system

(far left: timeline of hypoxic condition; top right: assembly process for the fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s platform; bottom right: buoyancy diagrams)

DEADZONE

TOW TO SITE tow to hypoxic system

{ 2015 }

PLATFORM TYPE: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT IN HYPOXIA SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

{ 2015 }

PLATFORM TYPE: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT IN HYPOXIA water surface

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 5 - 10m

LOCATION: DELTA OUTLET MAINLY FOR MARITIME INSTITUTES TO EXPAND UPON HYPOXIA WITHIN THE ACTUAL CONTEXT. THIS PLATFORM WOULD OFFER ALL THE NECESSARY FEILD EQUIPMENT FOR R & D INCLUDING: SONAR, DOPPLER, CENTRIFUGE, ACCOMODATION FOR VISITORS, PLANKTON NETS, TROLLY

{ 2020 }

PLATFORM TYPE: FISHING BUNGALOW SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface water surface

thermocline

thermocline benthic zone

DEPTH: 5 - 15m

benthic zone LOCATION: DELTA OUTLET

LOCATION: INNER SHELF A SERIES OF PLATFORMS CLUSTERED TO CREATE HEALTHY WATERS. THIS AREA WOULD BECOME A COMMUNITY FOR LOCAL FISHERMAN TO STORE EQUIPMENT, AND FISH WITHIN A SOFT BOUNDARY OF OXYGENATED WATERS.

MAINLY FOR MARITIME INSTITUTES TO EXPAND UPON HYPOXIA WITHIN THE ACTUAL CONTEXT. THIS PLATFORM WOULD OFFER ALL THE NECESSARY FEILD EQUIPMENT FOR R & D INCLUDING: SONAR, DOPPLER, CENTRIFUGE, ACCOMODATION FOR VISITORS, PLANKTON NETS, TROLLY

DEPTH: 5 - 10m

{ 2050 }

PLATFORM TYPE: PRODUCTION SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

{ 2020 }

thermocline

-- Research and Development Platform -PLATFORM TYPE: FISHING BUNGALOW The location of this particular platform would initially be implemented

benthic zone

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

within the major hypoxic systems of the delta outlets. Each platform would mainly be for maritime institutes to expand upon hypoxia with-

cleaning equipment and accomodation. (Interior seen on pg. 57) Section A: During the phase of algae cultivation within the months of september through April. Section B:

in the actual context. This platform would offer all the necessary feild

The algae harvesting phase during the months of May

equipment for R & D including: sonar, doppler, centrifuge, accomoda-

through September; aeration of water column

tion for visitors, plankton nets, and trollies.

DEPTH: 15 - 25m

Section C: (perspective on pg. 49)

LOCATION: OUTER SHELF THIS PLATFORM WOULD BE USED FOR LARGER OPERATIONS OF ALGAE COLLECTION AND CULTIVATION TAKING ON THE ASSEMBLY LINE OF BIO FUEL PRODUCTION. ALSO, TACKLING THE ISSUE OF ALGAE GROWING IN DIFFERENT DEPTHS OF WATER. MAYBE USED BY BIG OIL SUPER MAJORS IN THE NEAR FUTURE?

Axonometric:

Here the platform is in defense mode utilizing the ballast

Equiped with secured ballasted spar belly, fresh water vessel for

and buoyancy system the hull can avoid hostile seas.

section: A SECTION: CULTIVATION SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

section: B

SECTION: HARVESTING / AERATION

DEADZONE

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

17 14

8 18

17 14

6 9 8

13 10

NOTES: 1. SPUD CAN FOUNDATION 2. BASE BALLAST: PULLVERIZED IRON ORE

NOTES: 3. SPAR CONNECTION PIVOT 4. ACTIVE PUMP SECTION 1. SPUD CAN FOUNDATION 2. BASE BALLAST: 5. BALLAST/BUOYANCY MODULES (TYP.)PULLVERIZED IRON ORE 3. SPAR CONNECTION PIVOT

6. METAL GRATING PLATFORM

4. ACTIVE PUMP SECTION

7. UNDERWATER SPECTATOR 5. BALLAST/BUOYANCY MODULES (TYP.)

6. METAL GRATING PLATFORM 8. AIR TIGHT MULLION SYSTEM

9. WATER SEAL CAP

7. UNDERWATER SPECTATOR 8. AIR TIGHT MULLION SYSTEM

10. UNDERWATER ROOM MODULES 9. WATER SEAL CAP 11. STRAKE

10. UNDERWATER ROOM MODULES 11. STRAKE

12. TOP CONNECTOR MODULES

13. ALGAE HARVESTING SHOOT 13. ALGAE HARVESTING SHOOT 14. HULL SHEATHING 15. MAIN DECK 4

17. ALGAE NET ACCESS

: 1/2” = 1’

3 1

16. WATER COLLECTION WALL 18. FIBERGLASS COMPOSITE SHELL

18. FIBERGLASS COMPOSITE SHELL

15. MAIN DECK

16. WATER COLLECTION WALL 17. ALGAE NET ACCESS

CTION: R & D PLATFORM

14. HULL SHEATHING

SECTION: HARVESTING / AERATION SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

5 7

NOTES:

1. HARVESTING SHOOT

2. WATER BASIN

3. PRODUCTION SPACE / WET LAB

4. ACCOMODATION / DRY LAB 5. PLATFORM ACCESS 6. THICK AIR TIGHT GLASS

7. MAIN SHELL - FIBERGLASS COMPOS

PLAN: R & D PLATFORM scale: 1/2” = 1’

plan: main hull

section: C SECTION: DEFENSIVE

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

17 14

9 8

DEADZONE

47 11

DEPTH: 5 - 10m

{ 2020 } PLATFORM TYPE: FISHING BUNGALOW

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

{ 2020 }

LOC

PLATFORM TYPE: FISHING BUNGALOW

water surface

MAINL HYPOX WOULD FOR R ACCOM

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 5 - 15m

{ 2050 } PLATFORM TYPE: PRODUCTION

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

thermocline

H: 5 - 15m

thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 15 - 25m

benthic zone

LOCATION: OUTER SHELF

DEPTH: 5 - 15m

THIS PLATFORM WOULD BE USED FOR LARGER OPERATIONS OF ALGAE COLLECTION AND CULTIVATION TAKING ON THE ASSEMBLY LINE OF BIO FUEL PRODUCTION. ALSO, TACKLING THE ISSUE OF ALGAE GROWING IN DIFFERENT DEPTHS OF WATER. MAYBE USED BY BIG OIL SUPER MAJORS IN THE NEAR FUTURE?

LOC

A SERI HEALT NITY F FISH W WATER

{ 2050 } Platform --- Fisherman’s PLATFORM TYPE: The location of the fisherman’s platform would be utilized within the PRODUCTION

major hypoxic systems of the inner Louisianna-Texas shelf . Within SOUTHWEST PASSAGE these areas a series of platforms may be clustered to create healthy

fisherman with timeshares. Aeration would be automated. Section A: Here a barge is towing one of these units to the site of the hypoxic system Section B:

waters. This buffer zone of would become a community for local fish-

Withe the spar in place, the fisherman unit would be as-

erman to store equipment, and fish within a soft boundary of oxygen-

sembled in two parts. Spar extention and hull. Section C: (pg. 52 -53)

ated waters. Axonometric:

water surface

Each unit would be a robust structure offering storage space for the

The unit is in place, and fisherman are beginning to create a natural aquaculture.

section: A

SECTION: TOW TO SITE SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

section: B

SECTION: ASSEMBLY

DEADZONE

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

SECTION: HARVESTING / AERATION SCALE: 3/16” = 1’ section: C

DEADZONE

{ 2050 }

PLATFORM TYPE: PRODUCTION SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

{ 2050 }

PLATFORM TYPE: PRODUCTION

A H N FI W

thermocline

SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

benthic zone

DEPTH: 15 - 25m

water surface

thermocline

benthic zone

TH TI O TA D M

-- Production Platform --

harvesting the algae and aeration operations, while the second floor is used for cultivation and oil extraction.

The location of the production platform would be placed within the

Section:

major hypoxic systems of the outer shelf. This platform would be used

Position on the very fringe of the outer shelf reaching

for larger operations of algae collection and cultivation taking on the

depths up to 60 meters, the platform is currently harvesting

assembly line of bio fuel production. also, tackling the issue of algae

algae where growth is occuring. In addition, the vast con-

growing in different depths of water. maybe used by big oil super ma-

text of the ocean is utilized for an assembly-like production

jors in the near future?

line for cultivating algae. Nutrients and algae are flowing

Equiped with secured ballasted spar belly, fresh water vessel for

upward toward the sunlight as a figure of power, while the

cleaning equipment and accomodation. The first floor is utilized for

architectural intervention attempts to hault death.

DEADZONE

Here, two scientists, one peering into the distance at a steel truss petroleum platform, are realing in the last of the algae cultivation quarantine packaging system while the season starts for aeration and harvesting for experimentation.

DEADZONE

Research and Development Platform interior perspective

PROCESS

Process This next section of the book explores the architectural process of the Dead Zone from start to finish excluding some work from thesis prep with Ana Miljacki. The process will range from iterations of form finding through physical modeling, sectional studies, and axonometrics.

pgs. 60 - 75

FinalModels

pgs. 76 - 79

FirstReview

pgs. 80 - 87

MidtermReview

pgs. 88 - 95

PostMidterm

DEADZONE

figure 5.1 - 5.8 physical model of the research and development platform Constructed with one ply chipboard, 1/16â&#x20AC;? plexiglass, britstol, trace paper, and large stainless steel nuts for stabilization. This was going to have fiberglass resin; I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pull through. Bottom cylinder geometry was constructed by Alexis Sabolne.

figure 5.9 - 5.18 research and development platform early studies Constructed with a zcorp 3d printer in two parts: the upper deck hull and the under belly spar. The Bristol and bass wood was added later for the representation of an algae cultivation system.

figure 5.19 - 5.27 research and development platform revisions Utilizing the constructed 3d printed under belly spar as a kind of base for iterating upon the idea of a hull. This was a test to configure a geometry for the hull as well as an ideal geometry to incorporate both cultivation and harvesting systems.

-- Composite Materials --

a tectonic system that calls for complexity in geometry yet simplicity in overall form. The hull is symetrical and would be constructed

The purpose of this experimentation is to configure a durable, flexi-

similar to a boat hull with double curved surfaces, filleted edges,

ble tectonic system for the hull of each hypoxia remediation unit. The

and grooves for dispersing water back into the sea. Anything to

base spar is adopting the petroleum construction method with either

keep the structure from becoming â&#x20AC;&#x153;water logged.â&#x20AC;? In addition, the

a steel truss or concrete module system where as the insertion will

materiality would follow the same as a boat hull, fiberglass com-

utilize different construction techniques.

posite system.

Since the architecture is dealing with an extremely radical context:

The four images above are tests for this type of construction using

hostile seas and violent winds, the immediate reaction is to generate

woven fiberglass cloth, polyester or epoxy resin, and a hardener

added. The mold is something I had found when looking at surfboard

brush. This process must be done within 10 - 15 mins otherwise

construction. A new technique that allows for the surface to remain

the resin will become too viscous to soak into the cloth proper-

transparent. Instead of the mold used solely to make the finished

ly. With appropriate temperatures (70 degrees) the resin will be

product, it remains within the geometry as a structural supporter. The

dry and the edges can be trimmed accordingly. The other imag-

first image, starting on the far left, is a basic test of the composite

es test durability with one or two layers of cloth, double curved

system. The surface is completely flat. First, the waffle chipboard is

surfaces and triple grids( 90 degree grid with a single 45 degree

constructed as the mold. Second, two layers of fiberglass cloth are

biforcation at the midpoint).

cut with a two inch reveal and layed flat onto the mold. Third, the resin is mixed with the hardener (bondo fiberglass resin; 1oz = 10drops of hardener). The resin is then painted onto the cloth with a foam

figure 5.28 - 5.31 fiberglass composite tests

figure 5.32 - 5.39 fiberglass composite hull construction This first part of the hull is the backside of the research and development platform acting as a reciever for the algae cultivation quarantine package system. The surface turns the corner of the underside and begins to dip down into a water vessel.

figure 5.40 - 5.47 fiberglass composite hull construction This second piece of the hull is deck of the algae production space. This particular geometry has gone through many iterations. The purpose is to allow access for harvesting nets moving up and down. The excess water would be efficiently drained.

figure 5.48 - 5.55 fiberglass composite hull construction The third piece of the hull is part of the wall condition spliting its surface to allow for net access. This was an iteration before the previous geometry. The purpose of this test was to create one surface with a spatial condition.

figure 5.55 - 5.59 fiberglass composite hull construction The last piece of the hull is part of the wall condition turning a corner with a filet and becoming the overhead condition for accomodation. This type of construction will allow for an air-tight surface expelling any water from the context.

SECTION: SPECATOR SCALE: 1/8” = 1’

Early Process: Dwgs & Models 0’

5’

20’

10’

SECTION: SPECATOR SCALE: 1/8” = 1’

0’

5’

20’ 10’

SECTION: SPECATOR SCALE: 1/8” = 1’

0’

5’

20’ 10’

SECTION: AERATOR SCALE: 1/8” = 1’

0’

5’

20’

figure 5.60 - 5.65 Review 1 The following images are from the first review with reader Anton Garcia Abril, and Andrew Scott. The sections are looking at different modalities of viewing marine life and the models are searching for ideal forms for the context.

DEADZONE

ADV

figure 5.66: circulation and aeration spar

figure 5.67: viewing platforms for the entire water column

figure 5.68: Viewing pools utilizing pressure with air-tight chambers

{0s}

{1s}

SINGLE AERATOR OCEAN CURRENTS

{2s}

{3s}

MULTIPLE AERATORS

SINGLE AERATOR + 2 RETRIEVERS

RETRIEVING OXGENATED WATERS

{

ACCOMODATION RESTAURANT

}

AQUARIUM

P B

EUPHOTIC

LEISURE ABOVE WATER

}

(A) SPECTATING: FOLDING OUT

200m

(B)

BATHYAL

(AERATOR)

(B) SPECTATING: FOLDING IN (ARTIFICIAL REEF)

{0s}

(C)

{1s}

{2s}

{3s}

(A)

1500m (AERATOR)

ABYSSAL

OCEAN CURRENTS

DEADZONE

RETRIEVING OXGENATED WATERS

(AERATOR)

(D) REPELLING INTO THE ABYSS

MODALITY OF SPECTATING AQUARIUM TYPOLOGIES

COMBINATORY MODALITIES AQUARIUM + AERATOR

LEISURE ABOVE WATER

{

}

ACCOMODATION RESTAURANT

6000m

HADAL

(D)

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

This sections speaks to the idea of aeration in its earliest stages and a hypoxia experimentation platform for maritime research centers inland. Algae cultivation or harvesting hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t entered the narative.

DEADZONE

figure 5.69: Review 2 (midterm)

-- Review 2 (midterm) --

accomodation, wet labs, dry labs, etc, within the architecture. In the end, the midterm was presented as a plug-in architecture as

During the midterm review the critics involved were: Andrew Scott,

shown on the left as an abstract model. Each plug-in would be

Gediminas Urbonas, and two guest critics from the Graduate school

utilized for a specific function in the experimentation platform.

DEADZONE

of Design at Harvard. Here the main focus was the iteration of the insertion. The three iterations were either masses that addressed issues of accomodation for researchers, access, and aeration connectivity. The first two are overal structures that would be inserted into the spar cylinder with all

figure 5.70 - 5.82 early form iterations

MODULE MANIPULATION

TRANSITION FROM UNDERWATER TO ABOVE ARCHITECTURE

+12.00’ 00.00’ -15.00’ -30.00’

-95.00’

SPECTATING

-95.00’

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

ACCESS DECK

ALAE CULTURE TANKS

FIELD WORK EQUIP.

WORK STATIONS

+50.00’

+30.00’

+40.00’

+20.00’

-95.00’

DINING

-95.00’

LODGING

OBSERVATION DECK

CIRCULATION CORE

INFRASTRUCTURE CHASE

+60.00’

ACCOMODATION (2X)

-95.00’

OBSERVATION DECK

ENERYGY HARVESTING

DRY

ACCOMODATION 6

HOUSING

WORK SPACE

DINING

5 8

WORK STATIONS ACCESS ALGAE SIMULATIONS

ACCESS

WAVE HEIGHT DISPLACEMENT

SIMULATIONS

AIR LOCK

WET LABORATORY ACCESS

AIR LOCK CHAMBER

WET

PROGRAM STACK ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLED ACCORDING TO REQUIRMENTS OF DRYNESS

UPWELL AERATION

HOUSING AGGREGATION

ROTATION CREATING OBSERVATION DECK FOR EACH UNIT

DEADZONE

ANALYSIS

MARINE RESEARCH PROGRAM (TYP.)

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS

INLAND

W/IN NEW CONTEXT

DINING

ALGAE CULTURE TANKS 7

WATER TANKS: CULTURE BIVALVE LARVAE AND MICRO ALGAE WITH VARIOUS TEMPERATURES, SALINITY, AND FILTRATION PARAMETERS

SEAWATER QUARANTINE SEAWATER QUARANTINE SYSTEM PROVIDING THE CAPABILITY TO CONDUCT WORK ON NONINDIGENOUS SPECIES (20’ DIAMETER MIN)

THE COMPLEX WILL OFFER THE FOOD HARVESTED WITHIN THE AREA WHEN THE ARCHITECTURE ACTS AS A NOMADIC ECOLOGY.

LEISURE 8

DINING AND LEISURE SPACE WILL BE DIRECTLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE LODGING AREA.

FIELD WORK EQUIPMENT INCLUDING: ACOUSTIC DOPPLER VELOCIMETER, DREDGE, OTTER TRAWL, AND PLANKTON NET

SPECTATING SPECTATING UPON MARINE ACTIVITY WILL BE SPLIT INTO TWO GROUPS. ONE FOR THE TOURISM WITHIN THE LODGING SPAR AND ONE UNDER THE ANALYSIS SPAR FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH.

WORK STATIONS 4

GENERALLY SEAWATER RESEARCH STATIONS PROVIDE 15 WORK STATIONS

4X WORK STATIONS

10 5

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY WORK STATION FO 3, EQUIPPED WITH FUME HOOD, FLOUROMETER, SPECTROPHOTOMETER, CENTRIFUGE, BALANCES, AND WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM

ALGAE BLOOMS WOULD BE COLLECTED BY THE ARCHITECTURE AS A MODE OF ENERGY GENERATION: BIODIESEL 2X WORK STATIONS

TYPICALLY RESEARCH CENTERS PROVIDE TEMPORARY HOUSING FOR 40-50 PEOPLE.

UPWELL AERATION WATER WOULD BE CIRCULATED BY UPWELLING BOTTOM LAYER NUTRIENTS WITH OXYGENATED SURFACE LAYERS BREAKING THE THERMOCLINE BENEFITING THE MARINE FOOD CHAIN

LODGING 6

ALGAE COLLECTION

10X ACCOMODATIONS

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

permanent ballast for stabalization

place main operating deck

deploy spud cans

SPAR ASSEMBLY A

SQUARE PASSAGE

BUOYANCY MODULE

BALLAST MODULE

CYLINDRICAL PASSAGE

PRE-CAST CONCRETE MODULES ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM SAME MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRE-

MODULE AGGREGATION

OCTOGONAL SPAR CAST CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

BALLAST MODULE

BUOYANCY MODULE

PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR

B C

DOUBLE WALLED PIPE

POST TENSIONED CONDUITS

1 10

STRAKE

MODULE MANIPULATION

TRANSITION FROM UNDERWATER TO ABOVE ARCHITECTURE

STEEL TRUSS MODULES ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM A MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRECAST

MODULE AGGREGATION

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY (TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS)

CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

+12.00’ 00.00’ -15.00’ -30.00’

BUOYANCY PROCESS TYPICAL SPAR PETROLEUM PLATFORM

-95.00’

SPECTATING

-95.00’

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

ACCESS DECK

ALAE CULTURE TANKS

FIELD WORK EQUIP.

WORK STATIONS

+50.00’

+30.00’

+40.00’

+20.00’

HYPOXIA APPROPRIATION

MODIFICATION OF MODULES

DINING

-95.00’

figure 5.83 - 5.92 Review 2(midterm) LODGING

The images on the past two spreads are from the midterm review looking at different levels of the structure, techniques of buoyancy, modalities of collecting algae, as well as physical models of the final architecture.

OBSERVATION DECK

CIRCULATION CORE

DEADZONE

-95.00’

After the midterm review, the design began exploring a smaller scale satellite platform with a more complex geometry and a systems of shells that generate a hull inserting into the spar. These decisions came with more research in hypoxia.

DEADZONE

figure 5.93 - 5.101: drawings following the midterm

NUTRIENT FILTER

NATURAL ALGAE COLLECTION

EUTROPHICATION

7 5

10m

3 2

15m

STEP 1: FRESH WATER FROM DELTA WITH NUTRIENTS

STEP 2: ALGAE BLOOMS BEGIN TO FORM

STEP 3: DYING ALGAE CAUSES OVER-POPULATION

[ FEB. - APR. ]

ALGAE CULTIVATION

STEP 4: ALGE DIES AND FALLS TO BOTTOM WATER CO.

[ OCT. - JAN. ]

MAY NUTRIENT FILTER

AERATION

SEPT

ALGAE CULTIVATION

NATURAL ALGAE COLLECTION

STEP 5: OXYGEN BEGINS TO DISSOLVE FROM BACTERIA

STEP 5: AREA BECOMES HYPOXIC, LIFE FLEES OR DIES

10 5m

10m

15m

AERATION

NOTES: 11

1. Accomodation shell 2. Experimentation shell 3. Living deck 4. Algae collection platform 5. Trolly net tie-back 6. Net & pully system structure 7. Algae trolly net 8. Bio-mass storage 9. Buoyancy modules 10. Aeration inlet 11. Active pump for aeration outlet 12. Aeration control room

7 5 4

3 2

NOTES: 11

DEADZONE

24.00’

13.00’

10.00’

SECTION: CULTIVATION

6.00’ high tide

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

18.00’

7.00’

SECTION: COLLECTION

4.00’

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

0.00’ high tide

Plan

scale: 1/2” = 1’

BUOYANCY MODULE

DOUBLE WALLED PIPE

BALLAST MODULE

POST TENSIONED CONDUITS

MODULE AGGREGATION

Steel Truss Modules

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

scale: 1/2” = 1’

STRAKE

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY (TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS)

DEADZONE

Section

26. ENTRANCE 21. MAIN DECK

25. PRODUCTION DECK ACCESS

24. HULL/DECK STRUCTURE

23. ALGAE NET ACCESS

22. WATER COLLECTION WALL

21. MAIN DECK

DEADZONE

22. WATER COLLECTION WALL 27. RESTROOM 7. UNDERWATER SPECTATOR2. BASE BALLAST: PULLVERIZED IRON ORE 23. ALGAE NET ACCESS 3. SPAR CONNECTION PIVOT 28. LOFT(2 BED) 8. AIR TIGHT MULLION SYSTEM 24. HULL/DECK STRUCTURE 4. ACTIVE PUMP SECTION 29. STORAGE 25. PRODUCTION DECK ACCESS 5. BALLAST/BUOYANCY MODULES (TYP.) 9. WATER SEAL CAP 26. ENTRANCE 6. METAL GRATING PLATFORM 30. LEFT COMPOSITE WALL 10. UNDERWATER ROOM MODULES 27. RESTROOM 7. UNDERWATER SPECTATOR 31. RIGHT COMPOSITE WALL 28. LOFT(2 BED) 11. STRAKE 8. AIR TIGHT MULLION SYSTEM 29. STORAGE 32. LIGHT WEIGHT ALUMINUM GRID 9. WATER SEAL CAP 12. TOP CONNECTOR MODULES 30. LEFT COMPOSITE WALL 10. UNDERWATER ROOM MODULES 33. CLOTH DRAPE OVER STRUCTURE 31. RIGHT COMPOSITE WALL 13. ALGAE HARVESTING SHOOT 11. STRAKE 32. LIGHT WEIGHT ALUMINUM GRID 12. TOP CONNECTOR MODULES 34. FIBER GLASS CLOTH SECTIONS 14. INNER CONNECTOR 33. CLOTH DRAPE OVER STRUCTURE 13. ALGAE HARVESTING SHOOT 35. EPOXY RESIN COAT ON CLOTH 15. OUTTER CONNECTOR 34. FIBER GLASS CLOTH SECTIONS 14. INNER CONNECTOR 36. BACK SHELL ALUMINUM 35. EPOXY RESIN COATGRID ON CLOTH 15. OUTTER CONNECTOR 16. MODULE: LARGE 36. BACK SHELL ALUMINUM GRID 16. MODULE: LARGE 37. ALGAE CULTIVATION TRACKS 17. MODULE: CORNER 37. ALGAE CULTIVATION TRACKS 17. MODULE: CORNER 38. ALGAE CULTURE 38. ALGAE BAGS CULTURE BAGS 18. MODULE: MIDDLE 18. MODULE: MIDDLE 39. BACK SHELL LEFT 39. BACK SHELL LEFT 19. ACCESS STAIR 19. ACCESS STAIR 40. BACK SHELL RIGHT 20. HULL SHEATHING 40. BACK SHELL RIGHT 20. HULL SHEATHING

6. METAL GRATING PLATFORM 1. ANCHOR FOUNDATION

NOTES: 5. BALLAST/BUOYANCY MODULES (TYP.)

4. ACTIVE PUMP SECTION

3. SPAR CONNECTION PIVOT

2. BASE BALLAST: PULLVERIZED IRON ORE

1. ANCHOR FOUNDATION

NOTES:

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

FINAL

Dead Zone: Final The remainder of this book reveals the final outcome or layout for the last presentation of M.Arch Thesis final review on December 19, 2013 in E14-674(media lab). During session 4 from 12:15 - 1:10 in section C4 the following critics participated in the review:

Andrew Scott

Anton Garcia-Abril

Gediminas Urbonas

Thesis Committee

Jose Selgas

Sheila Kennedy

Mark Goulthorpe

Guest MIT Critics

Jill Desimini

David Lewis

Amanda Lawrence

Lindy Roy

Visiting Critics

DEADZONE

[ BOARD: 1 ]

MISSOURI RIVER

41%

OHIO RIVER

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

AGRICULTURE RUNOFF 41% of the contiguous united states drains into the mississippi basin releasing a termendous amount of nutrients into the coastal areas of the gulf of mexico. the majority of these nutrients come from agricultural lands mass producing crops and animal waste.

14.007

NITROGEN

N P

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

43%

37%

66%

12%

14.007

N NITROGEN

30.97

PHOSPHORUS

14.007

N NITROGEN

FLOW OF NUTRIENTS INTO GULF OF MEXICO the nutrient runoff, consisting mainly of nitrogen and phosphorus, drains into the deltas of the mississippi river giving the opportunity for algae blooms to generate.

Picocyanobacteria

Diatom Phytoplankton

100% SATURATION 7 to 8 mg/l NORMAL ACTIVITY & BEHAVIOR 3 to 4

AVOIDANCE BY FISH

HYPOXIA

MOBILE FAUNA BEGIN TO MIGRATE TO HIGHER AREAS

2.0

FISH ABSENT

1.5

SHRIMPS AND CRABS ABSENT

FAUNA UNABLE TO ESCAPE INTIATE SURVIVAL BEHAVIORS

BURROWING STOPS

1.0

STRESSED FAUNA EMERGE AND LAY ON SEDIMENT

MORTALITY OF TOLERANT FAUNA

MORTALITY OF SENSITIVE FAUNA

0.5

SEDIMENT GEOCHEMISTRY DRASTICALLY ALTERD

FORMATION OF MICROBIAL MATS

0.2

HYDRODEN SULFIDE BUILDS IN WATER COLUMN

NO MACRO FAUNA SURVIVE

ANOXIA 0

CREATION OF HYPOXIA algae blooms form within the top layer of the water column suffocating the salt water. once the algae dies, it sinks to the bottom and becomes a bacteria haven. the process of bacteria eating the algae depletes the oxygen within area rendering it unsuitable for any marine life. this reeks havoc on the fishing industry.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

15.99

O OXYGEN

aeration experimentation analysis algae collection filtration

MITIGATION TECHNIQUES strategically aerating a hypoxic system can create an attraction of marine life. up-welling water from the bottom of the water column breaks the barrier of the thermocline and allows for circulation of oxygenated water.

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

2013

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

DUE TO STRONG WINDS IN THE GULF, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED BY

EXPECTED AREA: 7,286 SQ. M. TOTAL: 5,840 SQ. M.

2011

[ BOARD: 2 ]

2012

2002

DUE TO A DROUGHT, HYPOXIC ZONE DIMINISHED SIGNIFICANTLY

LARGEST HYPOXIC SYSTEM EVER DOCUMENTED

29.1°N _ 93°W

Mississippi R.

28°N _ 94.3°W

Atchafal aya R.

20%

28.6°N _ 91.5°W 29°N _ 94.8°W

27.5°N _ 95.7°W 30.1°N _ 88.9°W

27°N _ 96.5°W

29°N _ 92.3°W

28.9°N _ 89.5°W

Hypoxia experiment platforms { 1-5X }

~ networking data, harvesting/cultivating algae. multiple platforms according to how severe the oxygen depletion is yearly.

2015

2020

2025

2050

Maritime research facilities

Additional programs

~ Required programs inland

~ Within hypoxic context

{ TYP. }

ALGAE CULTURE TANKS

ALGAE COLLECTION

WATER TANKS: CULTURE BIVALVE LARVAE AND MICRO ALGAE WITH VARIOUS TEMPERATURES, SALINITY, AND FILTRATION PARAMETERS

WORK STATIONS

ALGAE BLOOMS WOULD BE COLLECTED BY THE ARCHITECTURE AS A MODE OF ENERGY GENERATION: BIODIESEL

GENERALLY SEAWATER RESEARCH STATIONS PROVIDE 15 WORK STATIONS

SEAWATER QUARANTINE SEAWATER QUARANTINE SYSTEM PROVIDING THE CAPABILITY TO CONDUCT WORK ON NONINDIGENOUS SPECIES (20’ DIAMETER MIN)

ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

UPWELL AERATION

WORK STATION FO 3, EQUIPPED WITH FUME HOOD, FLOUROMETER, SPECTROPHOTOMETER, CENTRIFUGE, BALANCES, AND WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM

FIELD WORK EQUIPMENT

WATER WOULD BE CIRCULATED BY UPWELLING BOTTOM LAYER NUTRIENTS WITH OXYGENATED SURFACE LAYERS BREAKING THE THERMOCLINE BENEFITING THE MARINE FOOD CHAIN

INCLUDING: ACOUSTIC DOPPLER VELOCIMETER, DREDGE, OTTER TRAWL, AND PLANKTON NET

Atchafalaya R.

ARTIFICIAL REEF

Mississippi R.

ARTIFICIAL WETLANDS

ALGAE HARVESTING AERATION

Networked remediation infrastructures

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

DEADZONE

~ algae harvesting in the case of hypoxia actually has the potential to decrease dead zone areas by 5%. harvesting the algae is the only part that requires occupation.

{ Sectional process }

~ Implementing an architecture that manifests itself throughout the entire water column gaining control over the cycles of hypoxia. The space above the surface of the water deploys/retracts according to specific levels of hypoxia.

10m

15m

STEP 1: FRESH WATER FROM DELTA WITH NUTRIENTS

STEP 2: ALGAE BLOOMS BEGIN TO FORM

STEP 3: DYING ALGAE CAUSES OVER-POPULATION

[ FEB. - APR. ]

[ OCT. - JAN. ]

MAY

ALGAE CULTIVATION

AERATION

NUTRIENT FILTER

SEPT

ALGAE CULTIVATION

NATURAL ALGAE COLLECTION

STEP 4: ALGE DIES AND FALLS TO BOTTOM WATER CO.

STEP 5: OXYGEN BEGINS TO DISSOLVE FROM BACTERIA

STEP 5: AREA BECOMES HYPOXIC, LIFE FLEES OR DIES

10m

15m

OCT

45 20

35 20 US begins to wipe clean abandoned oil wells in the gulf of mexico

US declares to open 500 new bio-fuel stations in the southeast

50 new platforms are now producing bio-mass

The hypoxic system has tripled its size in ten years, offshore oil extraction is beginning to diminish with the demand for clean energy rising

AERATION / FISHING INDUSTRY

BP to launch largest spar platform in history first woman president of the US steps into office

2020

hypoxia facility has shown instances of decreased area within the dead zone throughout the past five years

ALGAE HARVESTING

APR

GULF OF MEXICO DEAD ZONE

first hypoxia research facility launch in 2015 for an attempt to mitigate the dead zone in the gulf of mexico

20 20

I M

CULTIV

ALGAE CULTIVATION / BIOMASS

IV FE

20 20

JAN

CULT N

Hypoxia Mitigation

/ HAR VE ION S JUL AT N AU T U I

BP to begin construction on the first large scale algae harvester in the gulf of mexico to mitigate hypoxia and generate bio-fuel

local fisherman launch first aeration system for healthier aquacultural system

Algae Cultivation { OCT - APRIL }

~ Technique requiring quarantined space for algae growth and space for nutrient/photosynthesis deprivation for extraction of oils.

quarantine pouch

culture infrastructure

trolley system

aglae receiver

inspection / deprivation

Harvesting Algae seasonally { ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 }

Diatom Phytoplankton

Dominant communites of algae in the Gulf throughout the year

Picocyanobacteria Algae receiver

100

60 50

20 15

picocyanobacteria(%)

diatom and other(%)

Size(μm) Diatom average

N/A

Skeletonema costatum

Chaetoceros calcitrans

Thalassionema nitzschioides

10~110

Rhizosolenium

6~9

Picoplankton Average

Synechococcus

N/A

Chlorophyceae Nannochloris

30μm

<2μm

Dinoflagellate Karenia brevis

18~45

Phytoplankton

2~20

Diatom Phytoplankton Picocyanobacteria

non-hypoxic

hypoxic

Benthic zone aeration

{ ~ University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2010 } Aeration through waterfall from surface to bottom water column mixing creating natural convection to break the thermocline 0

light

Depth(m)

30 40

light

ter

surf

ace

30 40

nutrients

water column

Depth(m)

nutrients

0 10 Depth(m)

[ BOARD: 3 ]

Euthrophication

light

FIRS

PERM

JACK

-UP

the

rmo

40 nutrients 50

T OF FSHO RE RI G T PLAT FORM

ANEN

clin

ARTI

CULA

TED

RIG

COLU

Pelagic planklivores

Medusae tentacle nippers

SEM

I-SUB

Benthic non-selective carnivores

ben

thic

Bentho-pelagic non-selective carnivores

Benthic macro-mobile carnivores

Macro-worm carnivores

zon

SPAR

MER

SIBL

PLAT

FORM

KYLE ALTMAN ADVISOR: ANDREW SCOTT

construction

tow to site

raise hull 20m above sea level

drop legs to sea bed

perpare derrick for drilling

[ BOARD: 4 ]

cap well, move to new site

PLATFORM: JACK-UP RIG EXTRACTION PROCESS AND INSTALLATION

construction

tow to site

permanent ballast for stabalization

ballast into position

place main operating deck

deploy spud cans

PLATFORM: SPAR ASSEMBLY

PLATFORM: SPAR HYPOXIA ASSEMBLY / FORCE CRITERIA / BUOYANCY

sunlight / view / opposition current

insert hull male end

wind speeds at 150 mph

composite shell

wave height at 90ft ~ Ivan

DEADZONE

tow to hypoxic system

101

[ BOARD: 5 ]

{ 2015 }

PLATFORM TYPE: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT IN HYPOXIA SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 5 - 10m

{ 2020 }

PLATFORM TYPE: FISHING BUNGALOW SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 5 - 15m

{ 2050 }

PLATFORM TYPE: PRODUCTION SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

water surface

thermocline

benthic zone

DEPTH: 15 - 25m

NOTES:

1. HARVESTING SHOOT

2. WATER BASIN

3. PRODUCTION SPACE / WET LAB

4. ACCOMODATION / DRY LAB 5. PLATFORM ACCESS 6. THICK AIR TIGHT GLASS 7. MAIN SHELL - FIBERGLASS COMPOSITE

[ BOARD: 6 ]

5 7

PLAN: R & D PLATFORM scale: 1/2” = 1’

17 14

9 8

NOTES: 1. SPUD CAN FOUNDATION 2. BASE BALLAST: PULLVERIZED IRON ORE 3. SPAR CONNECTION PIVOT 4. ACTIVE PUMP SECTION 5. BALLAST/BUOYANCY MODULES (TYP.) 6. METAL GRATING PLATFORM 7. UNDERWATER SPECTATOR

8. AIR TIGHT MULLION SYSTEM 9. WATER SEAL CAP 10. UNDERWATER ROOM MODULES 11. STRAKE 12. TOP CONNECTOR MODULES 13. ALGAE HARVESTING SHOOT 14. HULL SHEATHING 15. MAIN DECK 16. WATER COLLECTION WALL

17. ALGAE NET ACCESS

SECTION: R & D PLATFORM

18. FIBERGLASS COMPOSITE SHELL

scale: 1/2” = 1’

BALLAST MODULE

PRE-CAST CONCRETE MODULES

MODULE AGGREGATION

ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM SAME MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRECAST CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

BUOYANCY MODULE

PRE-CAST PANELS INTEIOR/EXTERIOR

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

BALLAST MODULE

DOUBLE WALLED PIPE

POST TENSIONED CONDUITS

STRAKE

STEEL TRUSS MODULES

ALL MODULE ARE MADE FROM A MOLD, THEN AGGREGATED TO CREATE RINGS WITH PRECAST CONCRETE PANELS ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR. EACH RING IS STACKED STAGGARED FROM THE PREVIOUS.

MODULE AGGREGATION

RINGS STACKED STAGGARED

STRAKES ADDED FOR STABILITY (TYP. MACRO MODULE: 5 RINGS)

DEADZONE

BUOYANCY MODULE

103

[ BOARD: 7 ]

SECTION: CULTIVATION SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

SECTION: HARVESTING / AERATION SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

SECTION: DEFENSIVE SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

SECTION: TOW TO SITE SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

[ BOARD: 8 ]

SECTION: ASSEMBLY SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

SECTION: HARVESTING / AERATION

DEADZONE

SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

105

[ BOARD: 9 ]

P SECTION: BELOW SURFACE HARVESTING SCALE: 3/16” = 1’

[ BOARD: 10 ] Deploying algae cultivation { OCT - APRIL. }

{ REDMEDIATION IN PROCESS. }

Harvesting algae blooms { MAY - SEPT. }

DEADZONE

Underwater spectator

107

BIBLIOGR

Bibliography Maclachlan. An Introduction to Marine Drilling. Oilfield Publications Limited. Ledbury, England Graham. Offshore Engineering: Development of Small Oil Fields. Goodfellow Associates Limited. 1986 Onshore Impacts of Offshore Oil Offshore Oil and Gas (EEM) Long-Term Environmental Effects of Offshore Oil Brutton, Mark. After the Oil Rush. Avery Index of architectural periodicals. Pg. 46-49, July 1975 C. Homans. After the Oil Rush in Alaska. No. 3, Iss. 310, pg. 17-21. 2012 Guillot, Craig. Oil Spill: Year One. Vol. 77, Iss. 6, p. 12-17, 6p. July 2011 Mah, Alice. Industrial Ruination, Community, and Place: Landscapes and Legacies of Urban Decline. University of Toronto Press. 2012 Morris Architects. Hotelier at Sea. BLDG Blog. 17 Feb. 2009 http://bldgblog. blogspot.com/2009/02/hotelier-of-sea.html Lovins, Amory B. Winning the Oil Endgame: Innovation for Profits, Jobs, and Security. Rocky Mountain Institute. 2005 Tainter, Joseph. Drilling Down: The Gulf Oil Debacle and Our Energy Dilemma. Springer. 2012 NOAA. Dead Zone: Hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico. 2009. Retrieved June 23, 2012. Tyedmers PH, Watson and R, Pauly D. 2005. Fueling global fishing fleets. Ambio 34(8):635-8. Sylvan, J. B., Q. Dortch, D. M. Nelson, A. F. M. Brown, W. Morrison, and J. W. Ammerman. 2006. Phosphorus limits phytoplankton growth on the louisiana shelf during the period of hypoxia formation. Environmental Science and Technology 40(24): 7548-53.

David Perlman, Chronicle Science Editor (2008-08-15). Scientists alarmed by ocean dead-zone growth. Sfgate.com. Retrieved 2010-08-03.

DEADZONE

The Economist. Blooming horrible: Nutrient pollution is a growing problem all along the Mississippi. Retrieved June 23, 2012.

109

Many thanks to my advisor in many aspects Andrew Scott, as well as the committee for the Dead Zone Gediminas Urbonas, and Anton Garcia Abril. I also want to thank Sheila Kennedy; Shun Kanda; Galo Canizares; Eric Randall Morris; Julian Ocampo; Alexis Sablone; and Dave Miranowski for making this thesis possible.

DEADZONE

Acknowledgments

111

DEAD ZONE