Bio-Reclaim by Lalin Keyvan

[

]

introductory studio MAA2015/2016

BIO-DESIGN & ECO-MACHINES ACTIVE PUBLIC SPACE

BIO_reCLAIM

project team: LUIS BONILLA ABDULLAH IBRAHIM JONATHAN IRAWAN LALIN KEYVAN ROBERT STAPLES CHRISTOPHER WONG

introductory studio tutors: CLAUDIA PASQUERO CARMELLO ZAPULLA

introductory studio assistant: MARIA KUPTSOVA special thanks: NURIA PUEYO JONATHAN MINCHIN FABLAB BCN RICARDO VALBUENA

This booklet is a submission to the Institute of Advanced Architecture of Catalunya as a summary of the Introductory Studio Module. It contributes to the fulfilment of requirements for the degree of MASTERS IN ADVANCED ARCHITECTURE 02

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

MATERIAL INVESTIGATIONS

[ brief ]

[ question - aim ]

[ abstract ]

[ investigation framework ]

[ introduction ]

[ natural design Logic - B

[ bone anatomy and b

[ biorocks ]

[ bone growth & rege INVESTIGATION STREAMS

[ bone mineral d

[ bone growth & rege [ structural logic

[ cell structure re

[ Examples of calcific

[ material experiments ]

[ EX01 ] REPLICATION

[ EX02 ] MINERAL MATRIX

[ EX03 ] PULSE MODULATION

MANIFESTO + APPLICATION [ potential application ] [ recovering vs activation ] [ case study ]

BONES ]

[ BCN Context ]

biological structure ]

eneration biochemical process ]

[ BESÃ&#x2019;S ]

deposition - calcification ]

eneration structural behaviour ] and bone algorithm ]

egulation ]

cation and structures in nature ]

[ EX04 ] BRIDGING

[ EX05 ] PROTOTYPE

[ EX06 ] STRESS CONVERSION

6 PROJECT BRIEF

[ Project Brief ] The purpose of this project is to investigate, in depth, the concept and procedures of bio-design. The design industry has been exploring the incorporation of nature and biological/biochemical processes and structures. One concept in particular, Bio-computation, has conceived the project that is [ BIO_ re CL AIM ] The project calls for the implementation of a theoretical and scientific framework of investigation. A series of investigational streams have been developed to provide a rigorous and rigid structure of the project. Analysis, findings and observations should be meticulously documented and exhibited in the booklet.

This project sets BiorockTM as a pretext for investigating the capacities to construct a growing system to transform potential brownfield urban domains. Speculating on the possibilities of BiorockTM as an organism for recovering brownfields of polluted wetlands. The biological organism will be controlled to a physical system growing from the polluted ecosystem, providing a source of tangibility to the public, educating and quantifying the direct extent of disturbance caused by polluting the environment. The active space will be a dynamic platform for the public to interact and learn of the challenges facing the cities environment. The by-product will be the harmonious cleansing of toxic chemicals from the waters generating a source of energy and promoting the emergence of aquatic organic life.

ABSTRACT

[ ABSTRACT ]

INTRODUCTION

8 Previous experiments by Wolf H. Hilbertz(1) used the electro-accumulation of minerals in the restoration of coral reefs and revitalisation of sea life. Hilbertz trade-marked the accreted substance as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Biorockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Our aim is to first understand and experiment within the material limits of BiorockTM as an active urban application. We do this by controlling the accumulation process and devising a physical system which we can bio-computationally manipulate to suit our purpose. Bio-computational research in geometric formations leads to bones as a model for developing a biologically responsive material. Similar to bones, BiorockTM substance is a dynamic system that is able to repair itself after functional failures. Bone, regenerates and calcifies according to the external stimuli that is applied, resulting in the re-organizing of organic material which is distributed to a geometric output. Scientific research informs us that there are certain environmental conditions required to successfully generate electrodeposited minerals in seawater. The key minerals required for optimum growth are calcium phosphates, also present in greywater runoff. We conducted a series of controlled experiments with this mineral content and bone substratum, carefully varying the the control parameters, to produce the optimum growth suitable for full scale urban recovery and activation.

[ Electrically conductive material is formed in the desired shape ]

[ A minimum voltage of 1.23 volts is run through the structure, creating a net reaction within the local environment via oxidization and production of alkaline/ acid ]

Functions - protecting coral reefs against global warming, sedimentation, and pollution - restoring coral reefs where they have died or been degraded - restoring oyster reefs where they have died or been degraded - restoring fish habitat - restoring shellfish habitat - restoring seagrasses - restoring saltmarshes - mariculture - shore protection from erosion and global sea level rise - construction materials - hydrogen production - agricultural applications

[ the net effect causes limestone to be deposited in a specific and controlled location on the cathode at the expense of dissolution of limestone in sediment surrounding the anode]

QUESTION - AIM

[ 02 ] M AT E R I A L INVESTIGATIONS

QUESTION

Can we manipulate contextual factors for bio-rock mineralisation to replicate and change its growth and regeneration behaviour and matrix structure? Can we implement a new design logic to exploit and hack the material computational properties for architectural interventions?

12 MATERIAL INVESTIGATION STRUCTURE

AIM

PURPOSE

To investigate the augmentation and behaviour of bone generation through modification of the mineral precipitation/ calcification process of bio-rocks

FRAMEWORK NATURAL DESIGN LOGIC - BONES

Bone is a mineralized organic matrix in which living cells are embedded in a structure of collagen and minerals. Collagen lends tensile strength, while hydroxyapatite (a calcium phosphate) lends compressive strength. The living cells in bones continuously regenerate the matrix to repair wear and damage. Osteoclasts produce a localized acidic environment which dissolves hydroxyapatite into its ion constituents. Subsequently, the matrix is created by cells called osteoblasts, which lay down collagen strands upon which calcium and phosphate ions precipitate to form new hydroxyapatite. Our initial research and theoretical investigations discover the similar biomineralisation behaviour between bone growth and regeneration to the bio-mineralisation process of creating bio-rocks. This experiment will explore to what extent this is true. The experiment will be conducted to explore the similarities of structure both in the macro and micro scale, as well as investigating the material properties, strength, chemical composition and behaviour.

HYPOTHESIS

There will be apparent similarities of chemical composition, material deposition, growth structure between bone growth/regeneration and bio-rocks, more specifically in the bio-mineralisation process and calcification of minerals. By implementing a series of controlled stimulis in the experiment, we can simulate and bio-compute the material composition, deposition and growth behaviour of that within bones.

OBJECTIVES

_ To collect data for computing bone regeneration _ Assess what factors will affect the bio-mineralisation process _ Assess the macro and micro structure of the bio-rocks to test the stress properties of bio-rocks.

NATURAL DESIGN LOGIC - BONES

FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

[ structural framework ]

[ protection for major organs ]

[ enablin

ng muscle attachment and movement ]

[ mineral reservoir ]

[ trap for dangerous materials ]

16 BONE STRUCTURE

ANATOMIC STRUCTURE OF BONES

ANATOMY & BIOLOGICAL STRUCTURE - BONE CROSS SECTION

[ osteon close up ]

[ cancellous bone ]

[ cortical bone ]

[ bone marrow ]

[ blood vessel ]

[ 10-15 microns ]

[ 3-7 microns ]

[ osteon collection ]

[

0.5 microns ]

[ collagen fiber ]

[ osteon ]

[ polymerisation ]

[ osteoblast ]

[ osteoclast ]

[ Haversian Canal ] [ 2.5 nm ] [ collagen ]

[ osteocyte ]

BONE STR

BONE

[ macro ]

[ 400 microns ]

[ 250 microns ]

Sources: 1. Analyzing the patterns found in x-ray images of bones to tell us about osteopenia. | dayel.com. http://www.dayel. com/research/osteoporosis-trabecular-bone-pattern/. 2. DoITPoMS - Micrograph and record. 2015. DoITPoMS - Micrograph and record. http://www.doitpoms.ac.uk/miclib/ micrograph_record.php?id=118. 3. CORE-Materials â&#x20AC;˘ DoITPoMS Micrograph Library. 2015. CORE-Materials â&#x20AC;˘ DoITPoMS Micrograph Library. http://core. materials.ac.uk/search/detail.php?id=18. 4. Brajith Srigengan: Osteoblast branching across steel fibres3 | Flickr - Photo Sharing!. 2015. : https://www.flickr.com/ photos/cambridgeuniversity-engineering/9415598014. [Accessed 01 November 2015]. 5.. Brajith Srigengan: Osteoblast branching across steel fibres | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cambridgeuniversityengineering/9412832659. 6. Brajith Srigengan: Osteoblast branching across steel fibres1 | https://www.flickr.com/photos/cambridgeuniversityengineering/9415598196.

RUCTURE

E SEMS

[ 50 microns ]

[ 40 microns ]

[ 10 microns ]

20 BONE STRUCTURE BONE HISTOLOGY

ANALYSIS OF BONE HISTOLOGY The photographs above display the microscopic anatomy of cells and tissues within the bone structure. From these images, we can deduce that bone growth and bone regeneration is a by product

of the regulation of cells. The optimisation of bone structures can only occur when cells achieve their maximum strength potential through the minimisation of cell density. This would mean that it would

constantly attempt to maximise the distance between one cell and the neighbours.

22 BONE GROWTH AND REGENERATION UNDERSTANDING FORM

[Compression load due to body weight]

BONE GROWTH BEHAVIOUR

[Tensile load due to muscle]

[Theoretical hip bone diagram based on loading trajectories]

There will be apparent similarities of chemical composition, material deposition, growth structure between bone growth/ regeneration and bio-rocks, more specifically in the bio-mineralisation process

and calcification of minerals. By implementing a series of controlled stimulis in the experiment, we can simulate and bio-compute the material composition, deposition and growth behaviour of that within bones.

[Osteoblast - Bone forming]

[Osteoclast - Bone resorbing]

[Bone is laid down where needed and reabsorbed where not needed]

[MECHANICAL STRESS]

[Piezoelectricity - Mechanical stress creates electricity potential which increases bone density]

24 [GENERIC MATERIAL]

[STRUCTURAL OPTIMISATION - Finite element analysis using ‘Soft kill option’ SKO] [SKO presents an optimization algorithm simulates adaptive bone minerlization by varying the Young’s Modulus according to a calculated stress distrubution_ SKO C.Matheck, L.Harzheim, A.Baumgartner 1992]

[TREE ROOT BASE EXAMPLE BI-AXIAL LOADING]

[Externally applied torisonal force]

[Root base overlapping]

[MATTHECK - ON REDUCING TENSIONAL STRESS

[Engineered taper]

[Collagen strands adhering to steel fibres, Cambridge Engineering University]

[Tree taper]

26 [ TOPOLOGY OPTIMISATION SOFTWARE]

01 Material Block (1m x 0.5m 0.2m)

DIGITAL BONE MODELLING

Topostruct developed by Panagiotis Michalatos and Sawako Kaijima.

Parameters Density 12.0 kg/m3 Deadload 1.0 kg

The user inputs the dimensions and resolution of an orthogonal region in space which will be assigned certain material density. Then the user must place different support conditions and applied loads within this region and finally run the optimizer which will yield a distribution of material that best meets these conditions. 04 Phase 02 of Optimisation

07 Principal Stress Lines

02 Apply Support & Load Region

03 Phase 01 of Optimisation

Deadload 1.0 kg

3 Step iteration of youngs modulus

05 Deflection of Component

06 Internal Stress/Strain Distribution

08 IsoSurface Shape

09 Shape Export to Rhino

BONE GROWTH AN

MICROAN

[ A new force is introduced ]

[ Distribution of loads derives optimal structural points ]

[ Material Upper Limit Behaviour ] When extreme forces or a new force outside the accepted range are introduced, the material can reach its Upper limit. If that upper Limit is breached, it is no longer to adapt to accommodate for the change at such a rapid rate. The result is most often the failure or fracture of the material. In this case, the bone is no longer to support its function, which leads to the fracture in the surface.

[ Extreme Forces are introduced ]

[ Condensed distribution

ND REGENERATION

NALYSIS

[ Nature’s Computation } Bones are subjected to a series of forces based on its location within the body of any vertebrates. Bodies are designed to limit the range of forces that act upon the structure (bones). It is natural behaviour for the bone to optimise itself and re-compute the distribution of matter within the body in order to achieve “material point of equilibrium”.This would mean that in the continual introduction of forces in our lifecycle, bones will always adapt to the new forces by varying its form and density.

l ]

[ Connection & Pathing back to existing segments with the most efficient strategy ]

of loads ]

[ Inability for existing path to support new loads ]

[ Stress Fracture ]

[ Pathing, Branching and Cell Regulation ]

Material distribution to adapt to the forces subjected on the surface of the bone can be attempted to be explained in the diagram above. Like most systems in nature, matter regulates itself to occupy spaces in various manners depending on the function of the overall system. Matter distribution in bones is one that is can be classified as both “distancing” and “attracting”, achieving maximum efficiency in the structure while maintaining

the furthest distance away from other matter/points of influence. This results in the optimisation of weight within bone structures. Forces are accommodated through a series of paths. Nature computes the most economic path and continually calculates new paths to adapt to achieve the material’s point of equilibrium.

EXAMPLE SIMILARITIES

IN NATURAL SYSTEMS AND STRUCTURES

CORALS

1.- Elkhon coral

SEA SPONGE

VENUS FLOWER BASKET

2.- Pillar coral

NATURAL STRUCTURES There are apparent similarities of cell regulation and material distribution in natural structures. Here, we see examples of natural structures that also adapt various forms of mineral deposition, each to its own functions.

MATERIAL EX

[ 01 ]

[ 02 ]

[ 03 ]

R E P L I C AT I O N

MINERAL M AT R I X

PULSE M O D U L AT I O N

AIM : To investigate if we are able to replicate the biorock formation process in a small scale apparatus

AIM : To investigate the material properties of bio rock growth and formation. The experiment will be conducted with a matrix of controlled variables of mineral compositions.

AIM : To investigate the effects of current modulation on the behaviour of bio rock growth and formation.

XPERIMENTS

[ 04 ]

[ 05 ]

[ 06 ]

BRIDGING

PROTOTYPE

STRESS LINES CONVERSION

AIM : To investigate the potential of bio rock growth and formation to form bridges or overlaps within set distances.

AIM : To investigate the change of factors required in the upscaling of bio rock growth and formation in a larger apparatus.

AIM : To investigate the formation and growth of bio rocks on a natural logic designed framework - one that is based on the stress and material distribution of bones.

[ 01 ]

EXPERIMENT 01

R E P L I C AT I O N

[ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 3x acrylic tanks // 3x metal 3D Voronoi wireframes // 3x flat aluminium anode // 1 L San Pellegrino // 1 L sea water // 1 L distilled water // 250 g sodium bicarbonate // wires // 6x alligator wires // 3x woods // electrical tape // 5 v power supply // large bowl // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers

{ METHODOLOGY ] 1. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid. Pour distilled water into large bowl. Add sodium bicarbonate. Stir until dissolved. 2. Record pre-experiment data for 3D Voronoi wireframes.

3. Set up three acrylic tanks. For each tank: Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into slot in wooden hanger. From the bottom, pass pointy end of wireframe through round opening in wooden hanger. Clip with alligator clip. Open acrylic tank. Lay wooden hanger across middle of opening of tank. Adjust positions of clips on anode and wireframe so that both are vertically centred in the tank. Add custom precipitation liquid, sea water and San Pellegrino to one each of the three tanks. 4 Power system.

METHODOLOGY

Determine mass of each wireframe using gram scale. Record. Determine diameter of wire using digital caliper. Record.

Using the wires and the alligator clips, connect the three aluminium anodes to the positive terminal of the power supply, and the three wireframes to the negative terminal of the power supply. Turn on the power supply. 5. Run system for 72 hours. For each tank: Every 12 hours, remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. After 72 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours.

Weigh wireframes and compare against pre-experiment mass readings. At several points in the wireframe, use digital calipers to determine if any change thickness has occurred. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

38 EXPERIMENT SETUP

[EXPERIMENT SETUP]

3D Voronoi structures were digitally fabricated to create guides and moulds for our wireframe structure. Here, the diagram demonstrates how the Voronoi cells were unrolled and laser cut. These cells would then be reconstructed and used as a guide.

40 APPARATUS

[ APPARATUS ] The apparatus was set as prescribed by the methodology. 3 separate tanks were set up, containing different types of solution. This would become the manipulative variable in our experiment. 3D Voronoi Structures were then placed inside the solution and a current was run from the power source. The anode is then introduced and the solution would then complete the circuit as shown.

APPARATUS

44 [ manipulative variable 1 ] SEAWATER Variable 1 provided the best precipitated result for the experiment. The minerals contained within seawater precipitated at a much faster rate than the other solutions. We can see that the exchange of minerals has even corroded the aluminium anode until failure.

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

The macro structure of the frames show similarities of matter deposition and distribution as those studied in bones. Crucial connections analysed were the joints between members.

[ manipulative variable 2 ] SAN PELLEGRINO Variable 2 provided minimal result for the experiment. Here, the minerals precipitated more scattered along the structure, rather than creating a collective mass. This might be due to a clash of elements within the water.

[ manipulative variable 3 ] SPECIAL BREW Variable 3 also provided minimal result for the experiment. Minerals that precipitated onto the frame are visually different than the other 2 specimens. The colouring of the precipitation is more brown and darker than the other two, though the behaviour of the precipitation is similar to that of variable 2. We can also see the lack of reaction to the anode that we found in the previous 2 variables, which might explain the minimal results and discrepancies of properties between the structures.

[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 1

46 [ 01 ] R E P L I C AT I O N CONCLUSION

Our hypothesis of the similarities between biorocks and bones in its chemical composition, material deposition, growth structure between, more specifically in the bio-mineralisation process and calcification of minerals was somewhat correct. However, we were unsuccessful in our goal to modify and manipulate the bio-rock mineralisation process to replicate the potential to biocompute bone growth and bone regeneration. More extensive research needs to be undertaken to study the calcification process in depth. Our introduction of external agents and minerals into our own concocted solution returned more of an adverse result rather than an additive result. The experiment can be repeated with new solutions and agents in an attempt to once again replicate, modify and manipulate the bone regeneration and growth process. In this experiment we were not able to deduce the exact chemical composition of the seawater. In the next iteration of the experiment, this will definitely be a controlled variable.

[ 02 ]

EXPERIMENT 02

MINERAL M AT R I X [ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 9x acrylic tanks // 9x Digitally fabricated Galvanized Steel 3D Voronoi wireframes // 9x 20mmx2mm flat aluminium rods - anode // 20 L Premixed Seawater Medium // 1kg MonoCalcium Phosphate // 800mg Calcium // 20x Transparent cables // 18x alligator wires // electrical tape | HeatShrink eletrical tubes // 12 v power supply // 1300mm x 1500mm Acrylic Sheet for Construction of Base // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers // Measuring Cups // Mixing Containers // Solder

[ METHODOLOGY ] 1. Fabricate 3D Voronoi Structures 1.1 Model the desired Voronoi cells in a 3D modelling program i.e. Rhinoceros 1.2 Create unrolled surfaces to laser cut. 1.3 Reconstruct the Voronoi Cells as specified digitally 1.4 Cut the Galvanized Steel wires to size according to the sizes of the cells. 1.5 Use the new mould edges to guide the soldering of wires 1.6 Combine the Different Size Cells together. 2. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid.

3. Set up the 9 acrylic Containments For each tank: Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into slot in the top of the containment. From the bottom, pass pointy end of wireframe through round opening top of containment. Clip with alligator clip. Open acrylic tank. . Adjust positions of clips on anode and wireframe so that both are vertically centred in the tank. Add the respective Composition of minerals and seawater into 9 separate containments.

METHODOLOGY

2.1 Prepare the different solutions that would make up the variable matrix. Each Containment will hold 1.5 Litres of the Seawater Medium. 2.1.1 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1.2 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1..3 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1.4 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.5 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.6 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.7 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 160g Phosphate 2.1.8 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 160g Phosphate 2.1.9 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 160g Phosphate

4 Power system. Using the wires and the alligator clips, connect the 9 acrylic containments as shown in the apparatus diagram. Each row of the matrix is connected in series while the columns in the x axis are connected in parallel. With this methodology, we are able to split the ampere value from the 12V power supply into 3. 5. Run system for 96 hours. For each tank: Every 12 hour, remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. After 96 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours. Weigh wireframes and compare against pre-experiment mass readings. At several points in the wireframe, use digital calipers to determine if any change thickness has occurred. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

50 EXPERIMENT SETUP

[EXPERIMENT SETUP]

The method for fabrication of the 3D voronoi cells were the same as the method adapted in experiment 1. Each of the structures contained a total of 4 cells in this experiment iteration. In total, the team fabricated a total of 32 cells.

APPARATUS

[ APPARATUS ] The apparatus was set as prescribed by the methodology. 9 separate tanks were set up, containing different types of solution. This would become the manipulative variable in our experiment. 3D Voronoi Structures were then placed inside the solution and a current was run from the power source. The anode is then introduced and the solution would then complete the circuit as shown.

APPARATUS

56 CONTAINMENT A Ca 30g | P 40g

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

The structure that resulted from this compound was quite brittle. The calcification into the wires was quite porous, as shown in the close up macro image.

CONTAINMENT B Ca 60g | P 40g The increase in Calcium in this containment has led to the discolouration of the final structure. The porosity is maintained as containment A but the hardness of the structure has dramatically improved.

CONTAINMENT C Ca 120g | P 40g The pattern continues in the increase of hardness in the precipitation with the increase of calcium. In addition, new branching systems have grown on top of the guided growth.

[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

58 CONTAINMENT D Ca 30g | P 80g

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

The increase of Phosphates has led to a decrease in the precipitation porosity. The precipitation is also very brittle and does not completely adhere to the wireframe.

CONTAINMENT E Ca 60g | P 80g The discolouration of the structures has now increased. We can also see the same trend of the hardness of the precipitation increasing as a function of the increase of calcium.

CONTAINMENT F Ca 120g | P 80g This containment does not conform with the extrapolation of results. We should have expected more accumulation of the precipitation having a greater hardness property due to the increase of calcium. The hardness is achieved but the volume of mass around the wireframe has disappeared.

60 CONTAINMENT G Ca 30g | P 160g

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

The increase of the phosphate to 160g has led to the precipitation of the minerals to such a degree that it is no longer possible to see the wireframe structure. The hardness and cohesion of the structure is still brittle due to the lack of calcium.

CONTAINMENT H Ca 60g | P 160g Unexpected results follow in this containment and the subsequent. Here, we were expecting a full cover of hard, non porous precipitation. Instead, we obtained an incredibly strong structure, with coral like structures growing from the guided paths.

CONTAINMENT I Ca 120g | P 160g Similar observations could be made with Containment I. The accumulation is greater than containment H, but they are both equally as porous and hard.

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

[ DATA ANALYSIS ] The data analysis could only have been completed on a qualitative scale. This is due to the unavailabilty of a functioning microscope that will allow us to examine the crytalisation of the the minerals. We could only deduce and extrapolate relationships between the variables and parameters that we have set in the experiment. If we are to commence a 3rd iteration of the experiment, we would definitely explore methods to obtain quantitative results. The 3 graphs demonstrate the apparent relationships that we have made through the observations. We can see that where the cells were fabricated with thinner wires, there was a greater accumulation of precipitation. We suspect that this is because of the decreased resistance of the wire. Similarly, a relationship between the hardness of the precipitation and the calcium content within the medium can be found. The more calcium the containment had, the harder the precipitation. Relationships in relation to the porosity of the precipitation was also deduced to be a direct function of the phosphate content of the seawater medium.

CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 2

[ 02 ]

MINERAL M AT R I X CONCLUSION

The experiment has provided us with such a variety of results that it can be considered a form of success. The results have also revealed other direct factors for the precipitation and deposition of the materials. Our hypothesis from experiment 1 still stands, whereby, the similarities between bio-rocks and bones in its chemical composition, material deposition, growth structure between, more specifically in the bio-mineralisation process and calcification of minerals was somewhat correct. To our suprise, we also overestimated the amount of time it would takefor the precipitation to occur. The Precipitation occured completely over 8 hours and unfortunately we were not able to record in increments the process of the growth. The 3rd iteration of the experiment will solely focus on trying to understand this behaviour of how the precipitation occurs .This experiment however, has now equipped us with the knowledge to manipulate the material properties of the calcification process in biorocks, which meets the aim of the original project set in the brief.

[ 03 ]

EXPERIMENT 03

PULSE M O D U L AT I O N [ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 9x acrylic tanks // 9x Digitally fabricated Galvanized Steel 3D Voronoi wireframes // 9x 20mmx2mm flat aluminium rods - anode // 20 L Premixed Seawater Medium // 1kg MonoCalcium Phosphate // 800mg Calcium // 20x Transparent cables // 18x alligator wires // electrical tape | HeatShrink eletrical tubes // 12 v power supply // 1300mm x 1500mm Acrylic Sheet for Construction of Base // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers // Measuring Cups // Mixing Containers // Solder

The experiment setup and apparatus is identical to experiment 2. 1. Fabricate 3D Voronoi Structures 1.1 Model the desired Voronoi cells in a 3D modelling program i.e. Rhinoceros 1.2 Create unrolled surfaces to laser cut. 1.3 Reconstruct the Voronoi Cells as specified digitally 1.4 Cut the Galvanized Steel wires to size according to the sizes of the cells. 1.5 Use the new mould edges to guide the soldering of wires 1.6 Combine the Different Size Cells together. 2. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid. 2.1 Prepare the different solutions that would make up the variable matrix. Each Containment will hold 1.5 Litres of the Seawater Medium. 2.1.1 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1.2 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1..3 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 40g Phosphate 2.1.4 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.5 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.6 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 2.1.7 Seawater Medium + 30g Calcium + 160g Phosphate 2.1.8 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 160g Phosphate 2.1.9 Seawater Medium + 120g Calcium + 160g Phosphate 3. Set up the 9 acrylic Containments For each tank: Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into slot in the top of the containment. From the bottom, pass pointy end of wireframe through round opening top of containment. Clip with alligator clip. Open acrylic tank. . Adjust positions of clips on anode and wireframe so that both are vertically centred in the tank. Add the respective Composition of minerals and seawater into 9 separate containments. 4 Power system. Using the wires and the alligator clips, connect the 9 acrylic containments as shown in the apparatus diagram. Each row of the matrix is connected in series while the columns in the x axis are connected in parallel. With this methodology, we are able to split the ampere value from the 12V power supply into 3. 5. Run system for 10 hours. For each tank: Every 15 minutes, turn off the power supply and disengage the anode from the tank. Record growth and remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. After 10 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

68 CONTAINMENT A

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

Ca 30g | P 40g

CONTAINMENT B Ca 60g | P 40g

CONTAINMENT C Ca 120g | P 40g

[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

70 CONTAINMENT D

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

Ca 30g | P 80g

CONTAINMENT E Ca 60g | P 80g

CONTAINMENT F Ca 120g | P 80g

72 CONTAINMENT G

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

Ca 30g | P 160g

CONTAINMENT H Ca 60g | P 160g

CONTAINMENT I Ca 120g | P 160g

DATA ANALYSIS

[ DATA ANALYSIS ] The data collected produced unexpected results when compared to the results obtained in the second experiment. Here we see the significant growth and hardness obtained only on the first 3 containments, while the other containments struggle to percipitate onto the voronoi frames.

CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 3

76 [ 03 ] PULSE M O D U L AT I O N CONCLUSION

By modulating the flow of current within the cathodic structure, we are able to obtain a series of different results. There was a lack of growth on containtments with higher concentrations of minerals, which could mean that they require more uninterrupted time to achieve the material properties obtained in the second experiment. The containments with smaller level of phosphates and calcium seemed to have grown at a faster rate. In addition, the surface finish of the first 3 containments were different to the ones obtained in experimen 2. The rocks had a smoother finish, while maintaining a high level of rigidity, contrast to the results obtained in the second experiment.

[ 04 ]

EXPERIMENT 04

BRIDGING

[ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 3x acrylic tanks // 3x Digitally fabricated Galvanized Steel 3D Voronoi wireframes // 9x 20mmx2mm flat aluminium rods - anode // 5 L Premixed Seawater Medium // 240g MonoCalcium Phosphate // 180g Calcium // 6x Transparent cables // 6x alligator wires // electrical tape | HeatShrink eletrical tubes // 12 v power supply // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers // Measuring Cups // Mixing Containers // Solder

The experiment setup and apparatus is similar to experiment 2 and 3 1. Fabricate 3D Voronoi Structures 1.1 Model the desired Voronoi cells in a 3D modelling program i.e. Rhinoceros 1.2 Create unrolled surfaces to laser cut. 1.3 Reconstruct the Voronoi Cells as specified digitally 1.4 Cut the Galvanized Steel wires to size according to the sizes of the cells. 1.5 Use the new mould edges to guide the soldering of wires 1.6 Combine the Different Size Cells together. 2. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid. 2.1 Prepare the same solution for each of the 3 containmetns.. Each Containment will hold 1.5 Litres of the Seawater Medium. 2.1.5 Seawater Medium + 60g Calcium + 80g Phosphate 3. Set up the 3 acrylic Containments For each tank: Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into slot in the top of the containment. From the bottom, pass pointy end of wireframe through round opening top of containment. Clip with alligator clip. Open acrylic tank. . Adjust positions of clips on anode and wireframe so that both are vertically centred in the tank. Add the respective Composition of minerals and seawater into 9 separate containments. 4 Power system. Using the wires and the alligator clips, connect the 9 acrylic containments as shown in the apparatus diagram. Each row of the matrix is connected in series while the columns in the x axis are connected in parallel. With this methodology, we are able to split the ampere value from the 12V power supply into 3. 5. Run system for 10 hours. For each tank: Every 15 minutes, turn off the power supply and disengage the anode from the tank. Record growth and remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. After 10 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

80 [EXPERIMENT SETUP]

Structure 1

Structure 2

In the first structure, different distances were cut between individual layers of the base. The distances increased in size to investigate the maximum distance of branching

In the second structure introduced except towa distances were introduc of branching and mergi

e, a similar variable was ards a vertical nature. Varying ced to explore the possibility ing of mineralisation.

Structure 3 This structure is an extension of the variables introduced in structure 2. Larger distances were placed between the layers/ levels of the polygon face.

82 Structure 1

Structure 2

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances in the conductivity of the entire circuit as well a mistake in the reversal of the circuit connections, the voronoi structure became the sacrificial anode and was hence eaten away. Valid results could not be obtained.

The realisation of o implement the nec corrosion of the str have changes the h

our mistake allowed us to cessary changes to prevent further ructure. However, in doing so, we homogeneity of the structures.

[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

Structure 3 The accretion and precipitation of the material was burnt in structure 3. The mineral precipitated was brittle and black.

CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 4

[ 04 ]

BRIDGING CONCLUSION

Due to our negligence in the execution of the experiment, we could not obtain any valid or practical results. We were expecting to see the bridging to occur over the total run time of the experiment, but we could not achieve them due to the corrosion and instability of the structures. We would need to repeat this experiment again in the future to properly observe the behaviour of the growth to bridge.

[ 05 ]

EXPERIMENT 05

PROTOTYPE

[ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 1x 200L tank (100x50x40) // 1 x Digitally fabricated Galvanized Steel 3D Voronoi wireframe structure // 1x 50mmx2mm flat aluminium rods - anode // 50 L Premixed Seawater Medium // 1.33KG MonoCalcium Phosphate // 1KG Calcium // 2x Transparent cables // 2x alligator wires // electrical tape | HeatShrink eletrical tubes // 12 v power supply // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers // Measuring Cups // Mixing Containers // Solder

1. Fabricate 3D Voronoi Structures 1.1 Model the desired Voronoi cells in a 3D modelling program i.e. Rhinoceros 1.2 Create blue print of unrolled surfaces with angles of bending specified. 1.3 Create Polygon Faces by bending Galvanized steel wires according to the angles of the respective polygons. 1.4 Solder the ends for stability 1.5 By finding similar/touching edges, combine the different faces to make one voronoi cells. 1.6 Combine voronoi cells, based on the digital model. 2. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid. Prepare the solution for the large tank. For this experiment we will fill the tank with 50L of the seawater medium. 2.1.5 Seawater Medium + 1000g Calcium + 1333g Phosphate 3. Set up the Containment and Circuit Place the new Voronoi Structure into the mixed solution. Ensure that the structure is fully covered by the medium. Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into one end of the tank. Attach the the cathode end of the circuit into the voronoi structure. Adjust positions of the anode and wireframe so that they are not touching. Run the Circuit. 5. Run system for 72 hours. Every 12 hours, turn off the power supply and disengage the anode from the tank. Record growth and remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. Replace the sacrificial anode if necessary. After 72 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

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[EXPERIMENT SETUP]

DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS

[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

The aim of the experiment was to see the factors of influence that we should take into consideration before moving forward in the set up of the final experiment. Here we can observe that uneven growth has precipitated onto the structure as the mineral concentration ratio was multiplied and upscaled into the 50L water tank. The precipitation was incredibly brittle, attaining material properties similar to the first three containments in experiment 2 Another factor that affects the growth as previously experimented on is the flow of current. With the increase of water volume and length of building materials in the voronoi structures, the resistance has completely changed.

CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 5

[ 05 ]

PROTOTYPE CONCLUSION

If we are to achieve growth, we need to maintain the same concentration ratio of minerals from the small tank to the larger tank. Resistance of the structure also needs to be measured to ensure that the appropriate power supply is used in the structure.

[ 06 ]

EXPERIMENT 06

STRESS LINES CONVERSION [ ITEMS NEEDED ] // 1x 200L tank (100x50x40) // 1 x Digitally fabricated Galvanized Steel 3D Voronoi wireframe structure // 10 x 50mmx2mm flat aluminium rods - anode // 175 L Premixed Seawater Medium // 4KG MonoCalcium Phosphate // 3KG Calcium // 3x Transparent cables // 3x alligator wires // electrical tape | HeatShrink eletrical tubes // 12 v power supply // stirring rod // gram scale // digital calipers // Measuring Cups // Mixing Containers // Solder

1. Fabricate 3D Voronoi Structures 1.1 Model the desired Voronoi cells in a 3D modelling program i.e. Rhinoceros 1.2 Create blue print of unrolled surfaces with angles of bending specified. 1.3 Create Polygon Faces by bending Galvanized steel wires according to the angles of the respective polygons. 1.4 Solder the ends for stability 1.5 By finding similar/touching edges, combine the different faces to make one voronoi cells. 1.6 Combine voronoi cells, based on the digital model. 2. Prepare the custom precipitation liquid. Prepare the solution for the large tank. For this experiment we will fill the tank with 175L of the seawater medium. The mineral composition will then be mixed as specified as below. 2.1.5 Seawater Medium + 1000g Calcium + 1333g Phosphate 3. Set up the Containment and Circuit Place the new Voronoi Structure into the mixed solution. Ensure that the structure is fully covered by the medium. Clip aluminium anode with alligator clip and insert into one end of the tank. Attach the the cathode end of the circuit into the voronoi structure. Adjust positions of the anode and wireframe so that they are not touching. Run the Circuit. 5. Run system for 96 hours. Every 12 hours, turn off the power supply and disengage the anode from the tank. Record growth and remark if appearance of wireframes has changed. Record observations. Replace the sacrificial anode if necessary. After 96 hours have elapsed, disconnect system from power. Remove wireframes from tanks and allow to dry for 24 hours. Record qualitative observations about appearance, texture and physical resilience.

96 [SUBSTRATUM DESIGN]

DENSITY & PARAMETERS

OPTIMISATION

TOPOSTRUCTURAL ANALYSIS

OPTIMISED STRUCTURE - ISOSURFACE

STRESSLINE CONVERSION TO VORONOI CONFIGURATION

98 SEPARATION OF SUPPORTS BASED ON LOADS

INTRODUCTION OF A SEQUENTIAL L DIVISION OF STRESSLINES

LOGIC IN THE

UTILISATION OF LOGIC AS CELL NUCLEUS AND VORONOI DISTRIBUTION

100 EXPERIMENT 6 SETUP

[EXPERIMENT SETUP]

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The final apparatus was set according to the axonometric adjacent. Two anodes were introduced into the tank to ensure that the flow of ions are equal from both sides of the structure. All the circuit elements of the apparatus has to be embedded within the lightbox.

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[DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS]

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CONCLUSION & FINDINGS - EXPERIMENT 6

108 [ 06 ]

STRESS LINES CONVERSION CONCLUSION

With the results of the prototype and bridging experiment, we could hypothesise the morphology of the structure. The smaller size of voronoi cells eliminates the articulation of the substratum due to bridging. We could also observe various phenomenons of bridging that act against gravity, which could be a potential property we could exploit in the real life application of the structure. There is a limit towards the concentration of the minerals contained within the seawater medium. Once the supply is exhausted, we observed that the growth rate decreases.

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MANIFESTO + APPLICATION

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[ 03 ] MANIFESTO APPLICATION

Like all things in nature, a predisposition of the project is that it should have multifunctional uses and applications. It should not affect only its immediate context, but also have repercussions on various bio-spheres within its surroundings. Therefore, the final application is not only for the recovery and cleansing but also as an opportunity for the activation of abandoned polluted areas. How can the project instill a culture of change within the area through the direct engagement with the community? What we are proposing is the planting of a seed or a catalyst, an architectural intervention having “greater purpose than to merely provide a destination or improve the appearance of an area...an element that is shaped by the context in which it is placed, and should in turn shape that context, with the purpose of reviving the urban fabric…it should a stand-alone element, but rather an element within a framework that guides future development”. We can extrapolate the potential structural properties through the upscale of our prototype experiments as well as the combination of findings from Hilbertz’s “electrodeposition of minerals in sea water” - who managed to obtain structural properties attaining strength and hardness that is three times of that found in concrete, in a span of 2-5 years depending on varying environmental conditions. The structure can be heterozygotic, not attaining to a particular design/ functional property in mind, but is able to adapt on the occupancy behaviour of the community, fostering opportunities for the exchange of ideas and activities.

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112 The obtained knowledge from the experiments we have conducted has equipped us to propose an immediate application of an accreted substance in specific areas of Barcelona. Especially, with the mediterranean climate, occurrences of torrential rains will cause the breach of flood plains of riparian corridors such as the Besos River. During these phenomenons, toxic materials pass the threshold capacity contained within the water body. The outlet for the accumulation of these materials through the water path of the river to the mediterranean sea is through the mouth of the river in Barcelona. At this location, the concentration of pollutants are projected to be at its highest point and provides an excellent basis for a potential case study for a life scale prototype of our application. As an architectural intervention, the apparatus can act as an educational tool for the surrounding communities. The level of accretion and calcification of the minerals acts almost as an indicator of the pollution levels within the water, which may trigger a realisation within the neighbouring communities to change their modes of behaviour in the production of pollutants.

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“Greywater can vary significantly in composition; wide ranges of values for macro pollutants and nutrients have been published; for instance, COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) has been reported between 13 and 550 mg/L; BOD5 (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) 90 –360 mg/L; total nitrogen 0.6 –74 mg/L and total phosphorus 4–14 mg/L (depending on the use of detergents with or without phosphate) (Eriksson et al., 2002).” If we are to somehow apply this knowledge into a contextual reality, we can analyse the areas within Barcelona where pollutants are deposited as potential areas for urban morphogenesis

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CASE STUDY - BESOS RIVER

Positive examples of a similar cleansing/scrubbing system is the city of Copenhagen, where for many years, the discharge of wastewater polluted the harbour water, with sewage, algae and industrial waste, and outdoor swimming became a thing of the past. Now, local councils investments to improve water quality have recovered the recreational environment in the harbour area. It is only during very heavy rainfall that waste water containing bacteria and other pollutants is discharged to the harbour. On these isolated occasions, of which there are very few during the summer season, an established online warning system calculates the water quality in the harbour and the swimming facility at Islands Brygge is closed if the water quality is poor. We prophesie that our recovering application will perform in a similar manner, acting as a biological indicator to the citizens of Barcelona.

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