Feature The shift to use fully compostable materials for construction may help save our planet by eliminating the masses of waste non-recyclables produced by the construction industry. Unlike the fossil fuel derived and energy intensive materials that are used for building fabrication, these new 3D printable biopolymers can be reused and eventually composted. So, when will we have 3D printed skyscrapers? For the time being, it is unlikely 3D printing will surpass current construction methods for buildings 100s of feet tall as designing a 3D printer that big would produce more design problems than the construction itself. Though with the possibility of ex-situ part fabrication, we could see a quick change away from our traditional construction methods. 1. https://bit.ly/3dD9fSr 2. https://bit.ly/3dv9pvi
AI Space Factory’s Vision of “Tera” 3D Printed House.2
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Elemental Factfile: Arsenic
Infamous as a spy’s best friend in a compromising situation, this element definitely has quite the gruesome reputation.
Arsenic in its yellow form
Arsenic reportedly got it’s name from the Greek word “arsenikon” meaning yellow pigment, in conjunction with a futher Greek word “arsenikos” meaning potent. Both of these are very literal descriptions of the element itself. Occuring naturally in a crystaline form, arsenic has three common allotropes, grey, yellow, and black. The brittle grey shiney arsenic is
the most common form, with the yellow waxy arsenic converting into its more brittle counterpart with exposure to light at room temperature.
It is thought that the element was first isolated back in the Middle Ages, specifically 1250 by a scholar named Albertus Magnus. However is wasn’t until Paracelsus, a physician-alchamist got his hands on arsenic that it was reported to be prepared in its metallic form, taking on its title as “The King of Poisons”. Its high toxicity is what makes this element the “King of Poisons.” However it is relatively easy to trace when used in this way, leaving behind traces in hair, urine and blood. Exposure to even the smallest amounts of arsenic can
As
74.922 6 and lead to multiple-organ failure,
genetic damage.
C
12.011
Despite bad reputation, arsenic can also contribute to society in a more positive fashion through its use as a blue pigment in pyrotechnic displays or as a semi-conductor doping agent. Its toxicity can also be used for good, as it takes on the role of an insecticide, helping with wood presevation. This element is the perfect example of “don’t judge a book by its cover’” what seems like a dangerous element can actually be used for good.
Arsenic in its grey form
The University of Sheffield || Resonance Issue 14
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