PermaBioreactor - Emissions Mitigation through Nutritional Cultivation by Tiago Vasconcelos

PERMA BIOREACTOR A L AS KA P R OTOT Y P E P O RT FO LIO

Tiago Da Costa Vasconcelos AEE Thesis Student 2018/19 Programme Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Architecture IBT, Architecture and Extreme Environments

CREDIT | AUTHOR

PORTFOLIO CONTENT S

01 02

FIELDWORK INTRODUCTIO N

Architecture and Extreme Environments Outline Expedition Alaska

PROJECT DEFINITION

04 05

Budget + Timeline | 13

Research Review + Framework |

18 19

Information Gathering |

Prototype Drawings |

Ideation Sketching |

Preliminary Designs

Cultivation Test

Prototype Fabrication |

ALASKA E XPE DITION 43

Testing Schedule |

POST AN ALYSIS 54

Prototype Components

Prototype Imagery

Expedition Comments

PROG RAMME DE FIN ITION

Blueprint . Anchorage 2050 | 59

BUILD PHASE

Analyses + Results |

Prototype Alaska |

Prototype Intentions

Design Development + Refining |

27 28

Root Cause Analysis

PROTOTYPE PHASE

References + Precedent | 25

Thematic Exploration |

58 60

Timeline + Intention Primary Theme

Tiago Da Costa Vasconcelos AEE Thesis Student 2018/19 Programme Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Architecture IBT, Architecture and Extreme Environments

FIELDWORK INTRODUCTION

CREDIT | AUTHOR

AEE A R CHITECTURE AND EXTREME ENVIRO NME NTS OU T L I NE This Master programme pursues to explore the intersection between architecture, technology, culture and environment. Through a site-specific approach, we aim to respond to present and future global challenges through research by design and direct on-site involvement in the form of active expeditions to remote world locations where prototypes are put to the test and buildings are designed. In close collaboration with local communities, science and manufacturers, this Master programme engages with architectural performance, from component to building design, and the cultural impact of technology in our world through high-end design aesthetics. We mediate our presence in our environment via design and technology, often disregarding the environmental impact. It is our intention to investigate the design potential in working with technology not only as a performance orientated design parameter, but also as a process charged with aesthetic potential and cultural implications with sustainable aims, from building scale all the way to detail. Architecture today often abandons site-specific knowledge and local design traditions that have allowed for sustainable and resilient environments. Parallel to this reality, science and technology have a larger vocabulary of approaches and solutions than what is currently applied to building and component design.

THE ROYAL DANISH ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS Schools of Architecture, Design and Conservation Philip De Langes Alle 10

1435 Kbh K

EXPEDITION ALASKA LOCATION ALASKA | ANCHORAGE This year as part of my semester 03 at AEE, I engaged with Alaska - the northernmost and largest state in the USA. In November 2018 I traveled to there to conduct a months field work. Before departure I explored the challenges that faces this cold climate environment, its communities and the built environment; I focused primarily on themes involving thawing permafrost and food insecurity. My architectural prototype, which was designed to test a hypothesis, begin a dialogue and investigate a question will be unpacked and expanded upon in this document.

PROTOTYPE COLLABORATION In the process of developing and testing my prototype this semester, I collaborated with two institutions in order to achieve my aims and goals toward the fieldwork. Without the assistance of both Dr. Mikhail Kanevskiy, Research Assistant Professor of the Permafrost Laboratory, University of Fairbanks Alaska and Ryan Witten, Change Greenhouse Manager of Alaska Seeds of Change my prototype fieldwork project wouldn’t have materialised in as favourable a way as it did. This is but a small thank you to them both for the assistance and hospitality.

PROTOTYPE INTRODUCTION Can locally grown algae secure a healthy diet for Alaska? 15% of Alaska’s residents are currently defined as food-insecure, meaning that they lack access to healthy and nutritious food on a daily basis. The cold climate of Alaska does not allow for large scale agriculture and therefore the state imports upwards to 90% of all its consumables. Global warming is only exacerbating the challenge as the increasing temperatures cause changes to the migratory patterns of animals and fish, making these sources of protein more difficult to come by. This project investigates how CO2 released from thawing permafrost could be exploited as a resource for growing edible micro-algae. Why? Because algae grow by photosynthesis – the very process that could convert this Carbon dioxide into oxygen. Emissions Mitigation through Nutrition Cultivation - 01 | The prototype takes 3 frozen permafrost core samples and seals them within Airtight vessels, connected to an Air chamber which has within it an air pump. 02 | The air pump circulates the thawed air from the permafrost through a set of 3 Photobioreactors which are cultivating Spirulina sp. algae. 03 | Thus the algae consumes the emitted CO2 from the permafrost thaw, whilst simultaneously providing an alternate source of nutrition through its cultivation

03 SPIRULINA ALGAE consumes the CO2 during photosynthesis

02 CO 2 + AIR is pumped into photobioreactors

01 PERMAFROST is thawed and releases CO 2

PROJECT DEFINITION

CREDIT | AUTHOR

BUDGET + TIMELINE

6 000 800 900 2 700 1 000

Project Definition Build Phase Prototype Miscellaneous

500 5 000 1 600

PR OJ E C T D E F I N I TI O N 650 25

INITIAL TESTING

675

608 540 84 740

MDF Lid Caps MDF Laser cutting

53 74 107 0

Water System Water Pump Custom Connections

900 120 520

MH-Z19 Sensor Izokee OLED LCD Elegoo Arduino Uno Elegoo Starter Kit Misc Supplies

230 120 90 90 1100

PROTOTYPE FABRICATION

Air System Air Pump

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Acrylic Tubing LED Lighting Blanking End Caps Acrylic Lid Caps

PRELIM DESIGNS

B U I LD P HASE

NOVEMBER

Spirulina Culture Kit Aeration Connections

OCTOBER

PROTOTYPE INTENTIONS

18 500

5376

6 680 980 450 1850 800

Prototype Miscellaneous

2 200 12 160

DKK Spent | exc. Trip Proposed Budget Differential

WRITTEN SUBMISSION

TOTA L E X P E N D I TUR E 18 211 - 289

DECEMBER

Flight CPH-FA-ANC Return Flight FA-ANC Accommodation | FA Accommodation | ANC Transport

FIELDWORK ALASKA

ALASKA E X P E DI TI O N

03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 REVIEW 25 26 27 28 29 30 01 02 03 04 05 REVIEW 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 01 REVIEW 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 TAKE OFF 18 19 FA MEET UP 20 21 22 23 24 25 ANC ARRIVAL 26 27 28 29 30 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 REVIEW 14 15 16 ANC DEPART 17 18 19 20

INFORMATION GATHERING Context Research Permafrost Food Security Sequestration Algae Biochar

PROTOTYPE INTENTIONS Photobioreactor Pyrolysis Food Production Biochar Production

INITIAL TESTING Growing Spirulina Observation

PRELIM DESIGNS Photobioreactor Sketching Iterations

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT Sketching Refining Modeling Resolution Schematics Materials Purchasing

PROTOTYPE FABRICATION Laser cutting Metal Bending Component Prep Partial Assembly Packing

ANCHORAGE EARTHQUAKE Planning Setback

PROTOTYPE TESTING Permafrost Thaw Algae cultivation

ACTUAL

Flight CPH-FA-ANC Return Flight FA-ANC Accommodation | FA Accommodation | ANC Transport

PROJECTED

PR O P OSE D B UDGE T

SEPTEMBER

PROJ E CT T I ME LI NE

INFORMATION GATHERING

P R OJE C T BU DGET

INFORMATION GATHERING

C ITY INFO GRAP H ICS

F OOD SECURITY + P E RM AFROST THAW From the onset, I became incredibly interested by these two major challenges which Alaska faces, they stood out and sparked an interest in me which superseded any and all following areas which I looked into. Thus I decided, quite rapidly, that my first course of action was to begin to understand these two areas at length. My initial research was undertaken in parallel so as to not allow myself to favour one or the other. This was done in an attempt to thoroughly understand each challenge in its own right; and to better formulate early ideas toward responsive prototype concepts.

F OOD SECURITY IN ALASKA The issue of food security is prevalent throughout the state of Alaska. This issue is deeply rooted in a number of factors, however, the first obvious reason is the climate, the second state infrastructure and thirdly infrastructures connecting Alaska to the rest of the world.

Availability, having sufficient quantities of food on a consistent basis. Access, the ability to purchase food or attain food from multiple sources. Utilisation, the ability to meet daily nutrient requirements. [2]

“Food security is often described as resting on three pillars:”

[1]

AVA ILA BILITY + ACC ESS + UTILISATION”

A L ASKA: POPULATION WHO ARE FOOD INSECURE

[3]

*Aleutians West - Omitted

15 - 19 %

4 - 14 %

20 - 24 %

Fairbanks

Anchorage

FACTS + STATISTICS Consumables Imports

Consumables Imports

1955

2015

55 %

95 %

Alaska spends $1.9 BILLION each year importing food

102,180 1 IN 5

[3]

“With the advent of air travel and more efficient trucking, it became less expensive to haul food from the Lower 48 to Alaska than to grow it here. The state is deeply dependent on oil for its food supply.” “In any given week 6,300 Alaska households turn to Food Bank of Alaska’s network of food pantries for food assistance. An estimated 155,000 people are served annually, or 21% of Alaskans”

Alaskans are food insecure

Alaskan children are affected by this insecurity

1. Amanda Walch, Andrea Bersamin, Philip Loring, Rhonda Johnson & Melissa Tholl (2018) A scoping review of traditional food security in Alaska, International Journal of Circumpolar Health, 77:1, DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2017.1419678 2. Food and agriculture Organization of the united nations. Voluntary guidelines to support the progressive realization of the right to adequate food in the context of national food security. Rome: author; 2005. 3. Sullivan, M. (n.d.). Food Insecurity in Alaska: What we know and how we know it [PDF]. Food Bank of Alaska.

P ERM A F ROST THAW IN ALASKA The Arctic region, Alaska included is seeing the effects of global warming at a rate 2x greater than the rest of the planet. This increased rate of warming means permafrost thaws at an increasingly increasing rate; generating a vicious cycle of warming

A 2017 study estimated that if global temperatures rise 1.5˚C above 1861 levels, thawing permafrost could release 68 to 508 gigatons of carbon over the next ~150 years. This melting permafrost alone will increase global temperatures up to 1.69˚C by 2300. [1]

A L ASKA: THAWING PERMAFROST PR OJ E C T I ONS

[2]

Soil Temperature °C

-07

-04

-0

2001 - 2010

-10

Total U.S CO 2 Emissions

[3]

Yea r 2 018

1.48 GtC

Median Projected CO 2 Emissions [3]

ANC

Per Year

1.92 GtC

2041 - 2050

Different groups of microorganisms produce carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and other greenhouse gases when permafrost thaws. Carbon dioxide is formed by a multitude of fungi and bacteria during break down of old plant material in soil. [4]

ANC

2091 - 2100

Up to 85% of land area in Alaska is upon Permafrost Ground [4]

In addition to the release of carbon dioxide, permafrost thaw also emits the greenhouse gas methane. FA

Thawing of permafrost is also a major structural factor as the melting of ice causes severely unstable ground conditions below. This impact has devastating effects on architecture and infrastructure. [4]

ANC

1. Fountain, Henry. Tundra May Be Shifting Alaska to Put Out More Carbon Than It Stores, Study Says. 8 May 2017, www.nytimes.com/2017/05/08/climate/alaska-carbon-dioxide-co2-tundra.html. Accessed 17 Jan. 2019. 2. Thawing Permafrost in Alaska. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://nca2014.globalchange.gov/report/sectors/indigenous-peoples/graphics/thawing-permafrost-alaska 3. VOA. (2019, January 13). US Carbon Emissions Rise in 2018 Because of Industry, Fuel Demand. Retrieved from https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/u-s-carbonemissions-rise-in-2018-because-of-industry-fuel-demand/4736944.html 4. Fast facts about permafrost. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cenperm.ku.dk/facts-about-permafrost/

ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS The following analysis diagrammatically traces and unpacks the causes, effects and underpinning issues related to food security in Alaska. The purpose of this exercise was to identify possible areas of interest within the meta issue of Food Security for my prototype.

FOOD INSECURITY IN ALAS KA Prototype Challenge Themes

Potential Response

MINIMAL AGRICULTURE

LACKING INFRASTRUCTURE

DIMINISHING ENVIRONMENT

ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS

Climate and Landscape

Challenging and Vast Landscape

Shifts in Animal Migratory Patterns

Expensive Store Bought Food

Environmental Pollutants

Generally Low Income

Climate Change

Imported Goods

Lack of Expertise

Expensive to Develop

Limited Grow Period

Imported Materials Sparsely Populated

Freezing Weather Unsuitable Soil Conditions Permafrost Soils

Increased Industry Activity

Lack of Skilled Labour

Compensation for Diminishing Oil

LOCAL PRODUCED MATERIALS

Limited Industry Scope

RESILIENT PLANNING

VOCATIONAL TRAINING

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

Lack of Funding

Lack of Local Production Transport Costs Challenging and Vast Landscape

Self Subsisting Communities

LOCAL PRODUCTION

CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT

MINIMISE TRANSPORT

SOIL THAWING

DECENTRALISED FOOD PRODUCTION

INCOME GENERATION

THEMES FOR INVESTIGATIO N The themes listed below are the primary areas of investigation within the meta challenges which I have selected. These themes are not only relevant within the Alaskan context, but provide a means of wayfinding and direction for the prototype response.

Unsuitable Soil Conditions

Shifts in Animal Migratory Patterns

Expensive Store Bought Food

Permafrost Soils

Environmental Pollutants

Lack of Local Production

Compensation for Diminishing Oil

INITIA L ID EAS BAS E D O N THEMES The selected thematic challenges which are intrinsically linked to the issue of food security serve as inspiration for ideas toward a responsive prototype. My intention this year has been to focus more heavily on how the prototype instantiates dialogue, and asks questions about how to synthesize solutions with existing technologies?

SELECTED THEMES FOR INVEST I GAT I ON Prototype Challenge Themes

Potential Response

CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT

RESILIENT PLANNING

LOCAL PRODUCTION

SOIL THAWING

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

MINIMISE TRANSPORT

INCOME GENERATION

DECENTRALISED FOOD PRODUCTION

MINIMAL AGRICULTURE

Unsuitable Soil Conditions

Alternative Methods for Growing?

Permafrost Soils

Beginning to Thaw due to Global Warming!

DIMINISHING ENVIRONMENT

Shifts in Animal Migratory Patterns

Reduction in readily available Protein sources.

Environmental Pollutants

Release of Carbon Dioxide is exacerbating Global Warming!

Compensation for Diminishing Oil

Increasing financial shift toward extracting oil.

ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS

Expensive Store Bought Food

Increasing means and ways of sourcing + producing own food?

Lack of Local Production

Hinders ability to self sustain when there are economic constraints.

P R O D U C I NG A FO O D S O U R C E ? R E D U C I NG C A R B O N E MI SS I O N S?

RES EARCH REVIEW + FRAMEWORK Following my investigation into the root cause of these issues, and rapidly interrogating and investigating potential prototype ideas, my next step was to undertake a general + directed literature review to begin understanding the technological, systemic and scientific technologies and solutions which exist today, and may serve as inspiration for a prototype response. I came across a term which has become the starting point for my entire process. This term lead me to more directed research and thinking about how a prototype might actually begin to respond to both of the challenges set out post-root cause analysis. The research below.

“ B IOSEQUESTRATION” is the storage and removal of carbon from the atmosphere by conversion of carbon dioxide into biomass, generally by photosynthetic plants or bacteria.

ALTERNATE FOOD

ORGANI C BIOCHAR

01 SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF THE MICROALGAE NANNOCHLOROPSIS OCALATA

07 ALGAL BIOCHAR – PRODUCTION AND PROPERTIES Summary: This study assesses the potential use of various macroalgal species as feedstock in the production of biochar. The chemical composition and nutrient information of each biochar derivative is assessed, and it is determined that due to their high nutrient values, but low carbon content, these biochars could serve as affective soil ameliorants.

Summary: Given its nutritional density and potential value for human consumption, this study assesses health effects of oral consumption of Nannochloropsis oculate (N.O) in rats – focussing specifically on toxicological analysis. The findings demonstrate that if used in the production of omega-3 oil N.O is not toxigenic or pathogenic to rats.

08 STUDY OF BIO-OIL AND BIO-CHAR PRODUCTION FROM ALGAE BY SLOW PYROLYSIS

02 FUNCTIONAL FOODS ENRICHED WITH MARINE MICROALGA NANNOCHLOROPSIS OCULATA AS A SOURCE OF W-3 FATTY ACIDS

Summary: This study assesses the characteristics and nutrient qualities of biochar and bio-oil derived from slow pyrolysis of microalgal Spirulina. The study found that when compared to macroalgae, Spirulina nets a higher carbon content biochar, whilst maintaining high nutrient levels when compared to cellulose based biochar feedstock.

Summary: This study seeks to determine the potential for incorporating N.O as an enriching ingredient in long-shelf life food items. Enriched Cookie and Pasta recipes were tested for colour, texture, composition, sensory (enjoyment) and longevity, which ultimately concluded that N.O enrichment is a viable option for functional foods when incorporated at relatively low concentrations.

09 RECENT DEVELOPMENTS ON ALGAL BIOCHAR PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERIZATION

03 SPIRULINA - FROM GROWTH TO NUTRITIONAL PRODUCT: A REVIEW

Summary: This study assesses the various methods for producing algal biochar from micro and macro algae. The paper discusses potential best practices and multiple considerations when taking into account the physical and nutritional properties of biochar derived from algae; in comparison to biochar generated from other feedstocks.

Summary: This study appraises various methods of Spirulina cultivation and growth conditions, taking into considerations the various impacts these have on the nutritional and chemical composition of Spirulina Yields. Given its value, Spirulina is suggested as a future ‘super food’.

10 BIOCHAR, A POTENTIAL HYDROPONIC GROWTH SUBSTRATE, ENHANCES THE NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND GROWTH OF LEAFY VEGETABLES Summary: This study assesses the addition of rice husk biochar to a hydroponic perlite grow substrate with respect to its effects on nutrient quality, yield and growth of various vegetables. The study finds that the use of biochar may help in increasing the yield of certain vegetables, the nutrient values as well as the mitigation of algal growth in hydroponic systems.

FOOD SE CURITY 04 FOOD, CULTURE, AND HUMAN HEALTH IN ALASKA: AN INTEGRATIVE HEALTH APPROACH TO FOOD SECURITY

ALGAE C ARB ON DI OXI DE

Summary: This study questions and unpacks the manner in which ‘food security’ is typically viewed today; and expands on it through an Alaskan lens; pointing to the significant links food has to socio-cultural, phycological and biomedical aspects which extend beyond nutritional requirements.

11 BIOFIXATION OF CARBON DIOXIDE BY SPIRULINA SP. AND SCENEDESMUS OBLIQUUS CULTIVATED IN A THREE-STAGE SERIAL TUBULAR PHOTOBIOREACTOR

05 A SCOPING REVIEW OF TRADITIONAL FOOD SECURITY IN ALASKA

Summary: This study interrogated the ability for two microalgal strains; Spirulina sp. And S. obliquus, to grow at varying rates of CO2 concentrations. Cultivated in a three-stage tubular photobioreactor, the testing found that Spirulina sp. Performs well under increased carbon dioxide loads, and as such can contribute to the reduction of atmospheric carbon dioxide by using this gas as carbon source.

Summary: This meta study looks at existing studies on food security in Alaska. It assesses their approach to the research and identifies commonalities as well as opportunities for future research. In doing this, this study finds that further research is required for a more nuanced and detailed understanding of what food insecurity means within an Alaskan context; taking into consideration the prevalence of self-subsisting native communities.

06 FOOD AND WATER SECURITY IN A CHANGING ARCTIC CLIMATE Summary: This brief study takes an overarching look at the access and supply of fresh water in arctic communities, highlighting the importance of access, mobility and predictability of water sources given the temporal nature (frozen in winter, accessible in summer). It highlights that climate change is negatively impacting this accessible (summer) period, and thus strategy is required to plan ahead for water security of Alaskan communities.

1. Kagan, M. L., & Matulka, R. A. (2015). Safety assessment of the microalgae Nannochloropsis oculata. Toxicology Reports, 2, 617-623. doi:10.1016/j.toxrep.2015.03.008 2. S. BABUSKIN et al. (2014). Cookies and Pasta with Marine Microalga, Food Technol. Biotechnol. 52 (3) 292–299 3. Soni, R. A., Sudhakar, K., & Rana, R. (2017). Spirulina – From growth to nutritional product: A review. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 69, 157-171. doi:10.1016/j.tifs.2017.09.010 4. Loring, P. A., & Gerlach, S. (2009). Food, culture, and human health in Alaska: An integrative health approach to food security. Environmental Science & Policy, 12(4), 466-478. doi:10.1016/j.envsci.2008.10.006 5. Walch, A., Bersamin, A., Loring, P., Johnson, R., & Tholl, M. (2018). A scoping review of traditional food security in Alaska. International Journal of Circumpolar Health, 77(1), 1419678. doi:10.1080/22423982.2017.1419678 6. Daniel M White et al. (2007). Environ. Res. Lett. 2. doi:10.1088/1748-9326/2/4/045018 7. Bird, M. I., Wurster, C. M., Silva, P. H., Bass, A. M., & Nys, R. D. (2011). Algal biochar – production and properties. Bioresource Technology, 102(2), 1886-1891. doi:10.1016/j.biortech.2010.07.106 8. Chaiwong, K., Kiatsiriroat, T., Vorayos, N., & Thararax, C. (2013). Study of bio-oil and bio-char production from algae by slow pyrolysis. Biomass and Bioenergy, 56, 600-606. doi:10.1016/j.biombioe.2013.05.035 9. Yu et al. (2017) Recent developments on algal biochar production and characterization. Bioresource Technology. 246, 2-11. doi:10.1016/j.biortech.2017.08.009 10. Awad, Y. M., Lee, S., Ahmed, M. B., Vu, N. T., Farooq, M., Kim, I. S., . . . Ok, Y. S. (2017). Biochar, a potential hydroponic growth substrate, enhances the nutritional status and growth of leafy vegetables. Journal of Cleaner Production, 156, 581-588. doi:10.1016/j.jclepro.2017.04.070 11. Morais, M. G., & Costa, J. A. (2007). Biofixation of carbon dioxide by Spirulina sp. and Scenedesmus obliquus cultivated in a three-stage serial tubular photobioreactor. Journal of Biotechnology, 129(3), 439-445. doi:10.1016/j. jbiotec.2007.01.009

UNITED NATIONS GLO BAL GOA LS Given the themes and topics which I became interested in, the following UN Global goals will serve as the meta framework within which all proceeding work will follow. Drawing from, and upon the framework, the aim is to begin responding to the mission of each of the goals in a contextualised manner.

SELECTED GOALS FOR INVESTI GAT I ON

ZERO HUNGER [1] “Hunger is the leading cause of death in the world. Our planet has provided us with tremendous resources, but unequal access and inefficient handling leaves millions of people malnourished. If we promote sustainable agriculture with modern technologies and fair distribution systems, we can sustain the whole world’s population and make sure that nobody will ever suffer from hunger again.”

CLIMATE CHANGE [2] “The effects are already visible and will be catastrophic unless we act now. Through education, innovation and adherence to our climate commitments, we can make the necessary changes to protect the planet. These changes also provide huge opportunities to modernize our infrastructure which will create new jobs and promote greater prosperity across the globe.”

FOCUS TARGETS WITHIN GOAL S

TARGET 2.2

TARGET 2.4

END ALL FORMS OF MALNUTRITION [1]

SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION & RESILIENT AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES [1]

“By 2030, end all forms of malnutrition, including achieving, by 2025, the internationally agreed targets on stunting and wasting in children under 5 years of age, and address the nutritional needs of adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women and older persons.”

By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production, that help maintain ecosystems, that strengthen capacity for adaptation to climate change, extreme weather, drought, flooding and other disasters and that progressively improve land and soil quality.

TARGET 13.1

TARGET 13.3

STRENGTHEN RESILIENCE & ADAPTIVE CAPACITY TO CLIMATE RELATED DISASTERS [2]

BUILD KNOWLEDGE AND CAPACITY TO MEET CLIMATE CHANGE [2] Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning.

Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.

1. Goal 2: Zero hunger. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.globalgoals.org/2-zero-hunger 2. Goal 13: Climate Action. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.globalgoals.org/13-climate-action

PROTOTYPE INTENTIONS The two preliminary prototype concepts below represent the response to my initial intentions. Could the prototype produce its own food? Or could it reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere? These ideas were rapidly investigated so that a solid direction and focus could emerge once explored sufficiently.

P R O D U C I NG A FO O D S O U R C E ?

PROTOTYPE 01 P H OTO BIO RE ACTO R

CREDIT | MICROALGAESOLUTIONS.COM

MICROALGAE is cultivated as a quality food source due to its high nutrient and mineral values. Specifically, dried spirulina contains 5% water, 24% carbohydrates, 8% fat, and about 60% protein.

R ED U C I NG C A R B O N E MI SS I O N S?

PROTOTYPE 02 BIO C H AR P RO D U CTIO N

CREDIT | AUTHOR

Creating BIOCHAR is a charcoal used as a soil ameliorant; a carbon-rich stable solid which is produced through pyrolysis of an organic feedstock.

PROTOTYPE 01 P H OTO BIO REACTOR The first prototype concept involves the cultivation of a microalgae called Spirulina Platensis. Already widely used as a supplemenetative source of nutrition, this super food has the potential to serve on its own, adding dense caloric and nutritiounal value to a lacking diet.

TARGET 2.2

TARGET 2.4

- NUTRITION DENSITY high value of necessary dietary nutrients - CONTROLLED CULTIVATION cultivate throughout the year in various locations - ABILITY TO SEQUESTER CARBON carbon dioxide utilised from thawing permafrost for algal cultivation

AIR OUTLET

PERMAFROST SAMPLE fed into the holding chamber PHOTOBIOREACTOR | PBR THAWING soil is thawed and any gaseous release is deposited + held in a separate chamber and analysed

AIR PUMP CIRCULATION

GASEOUS CHAMBER

held chamber air is pumped through PBR where Spirulina sp. Algae is cultivated

THAWING PERMAFROST HARVEST algae is harvested and circulated air within system analysed against thawed chamber air

LIGHT SOURCE Grow light for algal photsynthesis

PBR Spirulina sp cultivation, input air from thawing

GAS CONT. Captures & holds gas from thawing

PERMAFROST CONT.

FRAME Structural element to hold components

P ROTOTYP E 02 BIO C H AR P RO DUCTI ON The second prototype concept involves the pyrolysis of organic materials to produce a soli-stable form of carbon called biochar. This stable form can be buried or utilised in the agricultural industry and provides various benefits by sequestering carbon and acting as a soil ameliorant.

TARGET 13.1

TARGET 13.3

- HIGHLY POROUS AND HYGROSCOPIC habitat for many beneficial soil micro organisms - ABILITY TO SEQUESTER CARBON carbon dioxide removed atmosphere - PROCESS HEAT SOURCE pyrolytic process emits heat during burn of feedstock

HEAT FEEDSTOCK

CHIMNEY DRAW

fed into the internal combustion chamber

IGNITION top lit feedstock, combustion ‘front’ moves downward through the feedstock

PYROLYSIS chamber is covered and air intake drives combustion,feedstock at combustion front is starved of oxygen

SECONDARY AIR FLOW

BIOCHAR biochar is leftover after pyrolytic process, heat energy is emitted through the chimney

PRIMARY AIR FLOW

ATTACHMENTS Cooking, Condenser, Radiation

FEEDSTOCK VESSEL For placing organic matter for charring

PYROLYSIS CHAMBER Natural up draft combustion chamber

PROTOTYPE PHASE

CREDIT | AUTHOR

REFERENCES + PRECEDENT Following the two initial concepts, I chose to investigate prototype concept 1 | Photobioreactor. This concept was more interesting and offered better opportunity and scope with respect to potential issues and challenges to deal with. Below, underpinning information which serves as part of the argument ‘for’ Microalgal nutrition.

PROD UC TION OF SPIRULINA BI OMASS I N CLOSED PHOTOBIOREACTOR S

[1]

NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF SPIRULINA [2] This represents the information for dry Spirulina

SP IRULINA A LIVELIHOOD

AND A BUSINESS VENTURE

[3]

Spirulina is a micro-algae and as such has been growing naturally in our environment for millions of years, it is a tough plant able to

W I T H STAND H AR SH

G R OW I N G COND ITIONS, in fact the micro-algae cell never really dies it goes dormant when weather conditions are not favourable, and as soon as these change and the environment is once again suitable for growth, spirulina begins growing and reproducing again. The Kenembus tribe of Chad harvest the algae from the lake and dry it in the sun in a cake shape form, which is locally called “dihe”. This has become a staple diet for some of the communities living around Lake Chad. In a study on the correlation between poverty and malnutrition 10 countries were taken as examples. Of those 10 countries 9 were found to have a direct link between poverty and malnutrition – Chad was the only country that was poor but had no malnutrition. Modern day technology allows us to grow spirulina in man-made machines called P HOTO BI O-RE ACTOR S – these machines are ideal to grow the algae in conditions where the natural habitat would otherwise not permit the cell to normally grow. Spirulina is a highly nutritious natural substance, which has in recent years gained, once again, interest in both developing and developed countries. It is very in high

P ROTEIN per acre than soybeans, 40 times OVER 200 TIM ES M ORE T H AN BE E F make it an

protein content; yields 20 times more

more than corn, and ideal food supplement for everyone. More awareness needs to be raised so that people understand what spirulina can do, its high protein, vitamin, mineral and micro-nutrient properties are good for both the ill (HIV/AIDS), malnourished children and infants and for the health conscious. In some cases spirulina has been incorrectly marketed as a medicine giving people, particularly Spirulina has amazing properties and in many ways can be considered a Super Food.

M OST REM A RKA BLE CONC EN T RAT I ON OF NUT R I E N T S KNOWN IN A NY F OOD , plant, grain, or herb. It’s composed of

It contains the

60% highly digestible vegetable protein, has extremely high concentrations of beta carotene, vitamin B-12, iron and trace minerals, and the rare essential fatty acid GLA – Gamma-Linolenic Acid (which people who have not been breast fed do not have). It has a balanced spectrum of amino acids, cleansing chlorophyll, and the blue pigment, phycocyanin. 1. Torzillo, G., Pushparaj, B., Bocci, F., Balloni, W., Materassi, R., & Florenzano, G. (1986). Production of Spirulina biomass in closed photobioreactors. Biomass, 11(1), 61-74. doi:10.1016/0144-4565(86)90021-1 2. Vanovschi, V. (n.d.). Seaweed, dried, spirulina. Retrieved from https://www.nutritionvalue.org/Seaweed,_dried,_spirulina_nutritional_value.html 3. Piccolo, A. (2011, March). Spirulina - A livelhood and a business venture. [PDF]. Indian Ocean Commission.

PREC ED ENT TECH NIC A L Aesthetic and technical references were looked at in order to draw inspiration for the project. The intents which developed as a result of this process was an aim to achieve an aesthetic which leans toward an ‘experimental’ look and feel. As though there is certainly scientific undertaking happening; but specifically, synthesizing technology and biology: A living machine Almost.

E X P E R I ME N TA L BIOREACTORS

[ 1]

CREDIT | DIGITALJOURNAL.COM

Instead of acres of ponds, CAER’s strategy is based on a closed system of photobioreactors to grow algae. CAER’s system, made of plastic tubes and off-the-shelf PVC pipes, is built by UK students and staff and glued together on-site. Expanding the system simply means adding more tubes. The closed system is more efficient, even in winter when sunlight is minimal. It is less prone to contamination, and evaporation is much less of a problem than with ponds. “We are harnessing algae’s ability to grow very fast and perform photosynthesis in order to take the carbon dioxide in flue gas and turn it into biomass,” said Michael Wilson, CAER engineer.

ALGAE CO 2 CAPTURE AT KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

CREDIT | DIGITALJOURNAL.COM

[2]

CREDIT | U.A KENTUCKY

B I O R E AC TO R C A RBON CAPTURE

CREDIT | U.A KENTUCKY

[3]

CREDIT | SALVADOR URQUIJO, GETTY IMAGES

A research photobioreactor designed to capture significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from power plant flue gas for high-density algae cultivation is showing promise. The bioreactor patented by California-based algal firm PHYCO2 is undergoing a multi-year trial at Michigan State University’s (MSU’s) T.B. Simon Power Plant, a co-generation plant that provides steam, heat, and power to the university and can fire biomass, natural gas, and coal. The bioreactor absorbs the CO2 from a slipstream of the plant’s boiler exhaust. PHYCO2 says its technology is set apart from other open and closed photobioreactor systems because it eliminates all possible contamination from outside sources, allowing microalgae to grow indoors 24 hours a day, without sunlight.

CREDIT | SALVADOR URQUIJO, GETTY IMAGES

1. Essential Science: Why algae may be the superfood of 2017. (2017, January 02). Retrieved from http://www.digitaljournal.com/tech-and-science/science/essential-science-why-algae-may-be-the-super-food-of-2017/article/482806 2. Kentucky, U. O. (2013, September 27). Algae CO2 Capture at the University of Kentucky: Part 1. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QI3Al1dpuUY 3. Urquijo, S. (n.d.). Tubular bioreactors filled with green algae fixing CO2 and producing... Retrieved from https://www.gettyimages.dk/detail/photo/algae-fixing-co2-in-tubular-bioreactors-royalty-free-image/908531866

PREC ED ENT AE STH ETIC Aesthetic and technical references were looked at in order to draw inspiration for the project. The intents which developed as a result of this process was an aim to achieve an aesthetic which leans toward an ‘experimental’ look and feel. As though there is certainly scientific undertaking happening; but specifically, synthesizing technology and biology: A living machine Almost.

THE L I GHT COMPASS

[ 1]

CREDIT | SONILAKADILLARI.COM

“It is envisaged that light levels in Florida can be measured and captured mechanically via methods such as the camera-obscure and photometers. Enclosures with specific openings and diffraction will be used to construct light chambers where the sun light can be captured and record. Slices of the Floridian sky light will be captured and stored in a greyscale negative print. The viewer looks thought the opening to the light compass to see when the sunlight is reflected straight through to the opening. This reflected light is even brighter the surrounding light levels which means even less light can enter the photometer from the 2 way mirror.

H.O.R .T.U.S. A CYBER GARDEN

CREDIT | SONILAKADILLARI.COM

[ 2]

CREDIT | ECOLOGICSTUDIO

Above a sea of green carpet rolled in places into seating, 325 transparent bags - photobioreactors containing nine different types of algae ranging from mint green to delicate pink, to more murky brown - hang from a catenary structure of acrylic rope. Each one has a long clear plastic tube EcoLogic encourages you to blow on, assisting the oxygenation and growth of the algae nurtured by your carbon dioxide. Each photobioreactor has a QR code on its side. By scanning it, visitors can access on their phone a page of information about the algae they fostered. They can also send a Tweet about their action. A screen in the exhibition shows a dynamic 3dscape – a virtual garden – which reacts to the amount of interaction by visitors with the algae. In the H.O.R.T.U.S. world (Hydro Organism Responsive to Urban Stimuli), biology becomes architectural, and architecture becomes biology, in a generative, open source of knowledge exchange.

FARMA: A BIOREACTOR FOR PHARMACEUTICALS

CREDIT | ECOLOGICSTUDIO

[3]

CREDIT | WILL PATRICK, INSTRUCTABLES

Synthetic Biology has rapidly developed from a scientific discipline into a large industry. Many new companies are designing microbes that produce valuable chemicals, such as pharmaceutical drugs and fragrances, in very large fermentation reactors. Today, we are on the verge of using synthetic microbes within consumer products. How should we incorporate synthetic organisms into our products, clothing, and homes? Farma brews Arthrospira platensis, also known as Spirulina, that has been modified to produce pharmaceutical drugs. The reactor brews, measures, filters, and dries the Spirulina into a powder. The consumer then fills gel capsules using the accompanying pill maker and consumes the drugs.

CREDIT | WILL PATRICK, INSTRUCTABLES

1. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://sonilakadillari.com/ 2. Domus. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.domusweb.it/en/architecture/2012/01/18/h-o-r-t-u-s--a-cyber-garden.html 3. Instructables. (2017, October 04). Farma: A Home Bioreactor for Pharmaceutical Drugs. Retrieved from https://www.instructables.com/id/Farma-an-at-home-bioreactor-for-pharmaceutical-dru/

IDEATION SKETCHING Sketching served as the primary tool for developing and unpacking ideas toward how a prototype might come to be when considering references and its aim. Design and details were thought about in both systemic and aesthetic ways; achieving a working system which more importantly gives the correct impression and creates the right impact.

PROTOTYPE SKETCHES

ID EATION S K E TCH ING

SYSTEM SKETCHES

DETAIL SKETCHES

PRELIMINARY DESIGNS The two variants which emerged through the explorative sketching process were then translated volumetrically into 3D space using Rhino. At this stage the model remained basic, with intentions toward system components and notions of aesthetic only being explored at a basic level. The primary focus at this point was to develop an overall aesthetic of a ‘compositional whole’.

RHINO MODELING

VARIANT 01 A balanced, symmetrical variation of the initial concept. This variant has more if a sculptural appearance and thus lends itself better to achieving ‘calculated rhythm’.

VARIANT 02

AIR VESSEL

PERMAFROST

REACTORS

VARIANT 02

PERMAFROST

AIR VESSEL

REACTORS

VARIANT 01

A semi-symmetrical variation which places focus on a front | back relationship. This variant has the potential to lean further into the notion of ‘living machine’ which refers somewhat to biotech | mech scifi.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT + REFINING Further development within 3D looked primarily at the relationship between design and available materials. The aim here was also to develop a bottom to top logic which portrayed the function of the prototype as it happens in reality. Permafrost deep in the ground thaws, it releases CO 2 upward, and what I am proposis is the capture and sequestration of this carbon.

RHINO MODELING

REACTORS

RESULT

PERMAFROST AIR VESSEL

The final developmental 3D model arose through a feedback loop which was informed by materiality and availability of parts + pieces such as pumps, valves and connectors.

CULTIVATION TEST Microalgaes are known for being easy and quick to grow, as well as resilient. However, the purpose of my cultivation tests was to determine how Spirulina might grow if it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t provided ideal conditions. The aim of the final prototype is, of course, to provide optimal conditions, the question here is how would its growth fair in the event of an unforseen situation? And which are the primary factors affecting growth?

Cultivation Kit consists of

01 SP IRU LINA LIVE CU LTU RE 02 G ROW TH NU TRIENT M IX 03 AE RATIO N K IT

Cultivation procedure involves filling a glass beaker with 500ml spring water at room temp, 25g of nutrient mix added per 100ml, stirred, and finally the addition of 200ml of live spirulina medium.

CULTIVATION KIT

DAY 10

DAY 01

Leaving the test to simply run, with constant aeration and only ambient light, at room temperature of ~23Â°C netted a positive result where growth | density of the spirulina is apparent. This shows that even though ideal conditions may not be met, the spectrum of external factors does not halt growth.

BUILD PHASE

CREDIT | AUTHOR

PROTOTYPE DRAWINGS A set of drawings to unpack and understand each of the elements which the prototype comprises of were used to ensure functionality and system logic. Each exploded component assembly depicts all pieces used in the construction of that component. Finally, a diagrammatic section which depicts the process flows of the prototype follows.

PROTOTYPE BREAKDOWN LIGHT TUBE

PHOTOBIOREACTOR

CONTROLREACTOR

AIR VESSEL

PERMAFROST VESSEL

Assembly

x3 pcs

x1 pc

x3 pcs

Inserted into and helds by PBRs

Slotted onto steel frame, connected for air, water and power

Held by steel frame, connected for water and power

Held by suspension plate, connected for air and power

Held by suspension connected for air

plate,

CUSTOM CONNECTOR

90° CONNECTOR

4 Way Flow, 3D Print Nylon

Ø 12mm Eheim Connector, Black Plastic

BALL REGULATOR VALVE

WATERLINE PIPING

Ø 12mm Valve, PVC Plastic

Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tube, Green Plastic

PHOTOBIOREACTOR Assembly

AIRLINE PIPING

STEEL FRAME

Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

Ø 12mm Hollow Tube, Steel

CONTROLREACTOR

PHOTOBIOREACTOR

Assembly

LIGHT TUBE Assembly

TEST TUBES 21x40ml Test Tubes, Clear Plastic

CONNECTOR TAP

Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tap, Black Plastic

Ø 12mm Eheim Tap, Black Plastic

CUSTOM CONNECTOR 5 Way Flow, 3D Print Nylon

WATERLINE PIPING

90° CONNECTOR

Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tube, Green Plastic

Ø 12mm Eheim Connector, Black Plastic

HOOP EYE

SUSPENSION PLATE

Threaded, Steel

3mm Laser Cut, Clear Plastic

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

STEEL FRAME Ø 12mm Hollow Tube, Steel

AIR VESSEL Assembly

HOOP EYE Threaded, Steel

SUSPENSION PLATE

PERMAFROST VESSEL

3mm Laser Cut, Clear Plastic

Assembly

F RA M E + CO NNE CTIO N S

STEEL FRAME

SUSPENSION PLATES

CONNECTORS

WATERLINE PIPING

AIRLINE PIPING

Assembly

Attached

Connected

x18 pcs

x3 pcs

x8 pcs

x3400 mm

x7800 mm

Fixed with M5 Wing Nut Pin Assembly

For test tubes, sample tube and Perma + Air Vessels

For Waterline Piping connections

Circulation System

Aeration System

AIRLINE PIPING Inlet

AIRLINE PIPING Outlet

CUSTOM CONNECTOR 4 Way Flow, 3D Print Nylon

90° CONNECTOR Ø 12mm Eheim Connector, Black Plastic

WATERLINE PIPING Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tube, Green Plastic

STEEL FRAME Ø 12mm Hollow Tube, Steel

CONNECTOR TAP Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tap, Black Plastic

CUSTOM CONNECTOR 5 Way Flow, 3D Print Nylon

90° CONNECTOR Ø 12mm Eheim Connector, Black Plastic

SUSPENSION PLATE 3mm Laser Cut, Clear Plastic

STEEL FRAME Ø 12mm Hollow Tube, Steel

LIGHT TUBE ASS EM BLY

AIRLINE CONNECTOR Ø 4/6mm Straight Connector, White Plastic

PIPE CAP Ø 40mm Round Cap, Black Plastic

LED POWER

COMPONENT COUNT AIRLINE CONNECTOR

PIPE CAP

x1 pc

AIRLINE PIPING

M5 ROUND HEAD NUT

x450 mm

x2 pcs

M5 RING WASHER

M5 THREAD ROD

x2 pcs

x1 pc

LED POST PIPE

POST PIPE HOUSING

x400 mm

x450 mm

AIR VALVE

PIPE PLUG

x1 pc

Y CONNECTOR

AIR STONE

x1 pcs

x2 pcs

Electrical Cable

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

LED LIGHTING 8x4800mm LED Strip, Warm White 3000K

LED POST PIPE Ø 18mm Tube, Aluminium

L I GH T T U B E FUNCTION LED LIGHTING

The light tubes provide the photobioreactors with light and aeration.

8x4800mm LED Strip, Warm White 3000K

LED POST PIPE Ø 18mm Tube, Aluminium

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

POST PIPE HOUSING Ø 34/40mm Tube, Clear Acrylic

LED POST PIPE Ø 18mm Tube, Aluminium

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

LIGHTING ~ 1000 Lux / Reactor On / Off Cycle of 20H / 4H AERATION Flow rate 1.2L / Minute / Reactor Provides Algae with CO 2 from Permafrost

AIR VALVE One way Air Valve, Clear Plastic

PIPE PLUG Ø 38.6mm Round Plug, Black Plastic

AERATOR ASSEMBLY 2x Aquarium Air Stone onto, Ceramic Aquarium Airline Y-Connector, Black Plastic

P HOTOBIOREAC TOR | P BR ASSEMB LY

COMPONENT COUNT

LIGHT TUBE

M5 ROUND HEAD NUT

M5 RING WASHER

x12 pcs

M5 THREAD ROD

LID DETAIL PLATE

x6 pcs

x1 pc

LID PLATES

PBR HOUSING

x15 pcs

x450 mm

PIPE PLUG

WATERLINE PIPING

x1 pc

x80 mm

Assembled

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Bolt, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

LID DETAIL PLATE 3mm Laser Cut Plate, Matte Black Acrylic

LID PLATES

P B R FUNCTION

6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

The PBR serves as the cultivation vessel for the Spirulina.

LIGHT TUBE Assembled

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

PBR HOUSING Ø 94/100mm Tube, Clear Acrylic

LOGO Laser Etching

VOLUME 3000 ml / Reactor

LIGHT TUBE Assembled

LIGHT SURFACE EXPOSURE 0.13 sqm Penetration depth of 25mm

PIPE PLUG Ø 94.6mm Round Plug, Black Plastic

WATERLINE PIPING Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tube, Green Plastic

LID PLATES 6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

CONTROLREAC TOR | C TRL ASSEMB LY

COMPONENT COUNT M5 ROUND HEAD NUT

M5 RING WASHER

x12 pcs

M5 THREAD ROD

LID DETAIL PLATE

x6 pcs

x1 pc

LID PLATES

CTRL HOUSING

x15 pcs

x300 mm

LID DETAIL PLATE

PIPE PLUG

WATERLINE PIPING

3mm Laser Cut Plate, Matte Black Acrylic

x1 pc

x80 mm

AQUARIUM HEATER

DIGITAL

Aquatech Thermometer

x1 pc

LID PLATES

WATER PUMP

AQUARIUM HEATER 25W Eheim Heater

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

PUMP POWER Electrical Cable

DIGITAL THERMOMETER

6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

THERMOMETER

x1 pc

C T RL FUNCTION

SENSOR PROBE Aquatech Digital Thermometer

Regulates water and circulation, providing feedback.

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

WATER PUMP Eheim CompactON 300 Pump

CTRL HOUSING Ø 94/100mm Tube, Clear Acrylic

PIPE PLUG Ø 94.6mm Round Plug, Black Plastic

WATERLINE PIPING Ø 9/12mm Eheim Tube, Green Plastic

HEATING Thermometer set to 30°C CIRCULATION Flow rate 140L / Hour / Reactor Central pump distributes tempered water

LID PLATES 6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

A IR VESSEL ASS EM BLY

COMPONENT COUNT M5 ROUND HEAD NUT

M5 RING WASHER

x30 pcs

M5 THREAD ROD

OLED SCREEN

x15 pcs

x1 pc

SENSOR BOARD

SENSOR PLATE

x1 pc

MH-Z19 SENSOR

VESSEL SHELL

x1 pc

x2 pcs

RUBBER GASKET

AIRLINE CONNECTOR

x1 pc

x9 pcs

AIRLINE PIPING

AIR PUMP

x360 mm

x1 pc

OLED SCREEN Izokee 0.96 Inch 128x64 Display

SENSOR BOARD Arduino Uno

SENSOR PLATE 3mm Laser Cut Plate, Matte Black Acrylic

MH-Z19 SENSOR 0-5000PPM Infraroter CO2 Sensor

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

AI R V E SS E L FUNCTION

VESSEL SHELL 1.5mm Vacuum form, Sanded Plastic

Drawing air from thawing Permafrost and aerating it through PBR. Measuring CO 2 PPM.

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

AIRLINE CONNECTOR Ø 4/6mm Straight Connector, White Plastic

AIR PUMP Aquatech Single Outlet Pump

RUBBER GASKET 2mm Laser Cut Gasket, Black Rubber

VESSEL SHELL 1.5mm Vacuum form, Sanded Plastic

PUMP 7W single outlet air pump, 3-way split PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

VOLUME 4L internal, 7L combined system

PERM A F ROST VESSEL ASS EMB LY

COMPONENT COUNT M5 ROUND HEAD NUT

M5 RING WASHER

x12 pcs

M5 THREAD ROD

DETAIL CLAMP PLATE

x6 pcs

x1 pc

AIRLINE CONNECTOR

AIRLINE PIPING

x1 pc

x40 mm

VESSEL SHELL

PERMAFROST CORE

x2 pcs

x1 pcs

RUBBER GASKET

CLAMP PLATES

x1 pc

x2 pcs

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

DETAIL CLAMP PLATE 3mm Laser Cut Plate, Matte Black Acrylic

CLAMP PLATES 6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

AIRLINE CONNECTOR Ø 4/6mm Straight Connector, White Plastic

AIRLINE PIPING Ø 4/6mm Tube, Clear Plastic

P E RMAF ROST V E SS E L FUNCTION

VESSEL SHELL 1.5mm Vacuum form, Clear Plastic

Holds permafrost sample, connects to Air Vessel to allow thawing gas to pump.

PERMAFROST CORE ~Ø50x200mm Permafrost Core Sample

GASKET 2mm Laser Cut Gasket, Black Rubber

VESSEL SHELL 1.5mm Vacuum form, Clear Plastic

PUMP 7W single outlet air pump, 3-way split VOLUME 1L single, 3L combined

CLAMP PLATES 6mm Laser Cut Plate, White MDF

PIN ASSEMBLY M5 Round Head Nut, Steel onto M5 Ring Washer, Steel onto M5 Threaded Rod, Steel

SEC TION D IAGRAM This section depicts the flow and function of the prototype broken down into two interwoven aspects. The air system where Thawing and Release of CO2 from the Permafrost held within the vessels is pumped into the PBRs is highlighted in blues. Additionally, the circulatory water system which regulates flow, temperature and nutrient mix is highlighted in greens.

PROCESS BREAKDOWN 01

Permafrost within the Permafrost Vessel thaws Releasing Carbon Dioxide into connected Air Vessel

Air within Air Vessel is then pumped through Airline Piping which is connected to Light Tube Assembly

Air Stones sparge pumped air into PBR and aerate the cultivation medium

Release air is captured and drawin back into Air Vessel by Airline Piping outlets

Water pump within the CTRL Assembly pumps tempered water out

Tempered water flows into each PBR through a network of Waterline Tubing

Water levels equalize as CTRL is emptying, flowing back into the CTRL Assembly from the underside

02 04

PHOTOBIOREACTOR Assembly

LIGHT TUBE Assembly

CONTROLREACTOR Assembly

03 04 AIR VESSEL Assembly

PERMAFROST VESSEL

Assembly

PROTOTYPE FABRICATION The initial portion of fabrication happened predominantly in the metal workshop. Here the virgin materials were prepared for components assemblies and prototype elements. The first thing was to cut and bend 30-45Â° angles in the various 12 gauge steel pipe to make up the frame. Following this, the acrylic tube for use as the PBR + CTRL housings was cut to length.

P ROTOTYP E FA BRIC ATION Component preparation followed initial metal workshop fabrication. Here the various components were painted, glues, sealed and soldered as necessary. This part of fabrication was the most intensive as it made up the majority of my build, given that the prototype is made up of a number of assemblies all with a variety of components.

P ROTOTYP E FA BRIC ATION Once component preparation was complete, a partial assembly of parts was done. This was to ensure that all pieces would fit together, be water or airtight, and ensure that if any further adjustments needed doing, that they could be made ahead of packing and take off.

01 Frame and Lids unassembled | 02 Assembling tube type components 03 Organising various components | 04 Partially assembled components, lids and Permafrost Vessels 05 Partially assembled components, plugs, caps and plates CREDIT ALL IMAGES | GEORGE PICKERING

PROTOTYPE COMP ONENT S Here, the prepack arrangement of prototype components to ensure that everything was in place and ready to be packaged, packed and taken with to Alaska. Some components such as the lids and light tubes were packed partially assembled, others which are more fragile, such as the Air and Permafrost Vessels were packed separately for maximum safety.

11 12 14

ALASKA EXPEDITION

CREDIT | AUTHOR

PROTOTYPE ALAS KA | ANCH OR AGE My Alaska fieldwork centered around Anchorage. The majority of my time was spent here, as this is where the majority of agricultural activity in Alaska occurs. Additionally, as the Port of Alaska, Anchorage serves as the main inlet for consumables and trade into Alaska, I chose to position myself in Anchorage to learn more about the Agricultural industry, and test my prototype.

FAIRBANKS

CPH - AK

18 - 25 NOV 18

FLIGHT OUT 17 NOV 18

FA - ANC

FLIGHT OUT 25 NOV 18

ANC H ORAGE AREA ELEV JAN RAIN

5063km 2 40m -7°C 399mm

JUL

59/km 2 18°C

SNOW

1793mm

POP

ANCHORAGE 25 NOV - 17 DEC 18

01 World Map - Alaska in Green | 02 Alaska Map - Anchorage Noted |

ANC H O RAGE TESTING SITE LOCAT I ON Alaska Seeds of Change is a vertical hydroponics greenhouse located in the midtown area Anchorage. Through through their cultivation greenhouse they provide supported employment, comprehensive educational and vocational services, and community-based behavioral health services to up to 20 transition-age (16-24 years old) young adults. Youth participate in all major aspects of running their urban agriculture business, with the opportunity to take on increasing job responsibilities and leadership roles.

01 ANCHORAGE MAP

SE E DS O F C HA NGE 704 W 26TH AVE ANCHORAGE, AK 99503, USA

SE TUP + TESTING

DECEMBER

For the duration of testing my prototype was setup within the Seeds of Change cultivation Greenhouse. This space offered a great setting functionally and aesthetically, tying into the intention and underpinning of my project; synthesizing a solution which incorporates technology, agriculture and a separate issue at large. 01 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12

PROTOTYPE TESTING Permafrost Thaw Algae cultivation

01 Anchorage Map - Seeds of Change Noted |

TESTING SCHEDULE

DECEMBER

My intentions goin into the project were to cultivate and test algal growth for 3 full weeks. Unfortunately due to some logistical challenges, and following the Anchorage earthquake on 30 Nov, my testing time was limited down to 12 days. The schedule for testing and measurements below.

01 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12

PROTOTYPE TESTING Permafrost Thaw Algae cultivation

DAY 01

2018/12/03

LOG

DAY 02

Perma Weight Quantity of Spirulina

2018/12/04

DAY 03 2018/12/05

THAW START Carbon Dioxide PPM Temperature

DAY 04 2018/12/06

GENERAL CRITERIA PBR + CTRL DAY 05 2018/12/07

DAY 06 2018/12/08

THAW END Carbon Dioxide PPM Temperature

Temperature Heater Set Temperature Water PH Lighting Cycle Water Top Up Nutrient Addtion GREENHOUSE

DAY 07 2018/12/09

Temperature Relative Humidity PERMAFROST CORES

DAY 08 2018/12/10

Weight Temperature Carbon Dioxide PPM Silt / Water Ratio

DAY 09 2018/12/11

DAY 10 2018/12/12

DAY 11

2018/12/13

DAY 12 2018/12/14

LOG Perma Weight Silt / Water Ratio

ALAS KA SEEDS OF C HA N G E Alaska Seeds of Change grows leafy greens and herbs year round to help feed their local Anchorage community. Their produce can be bought directly from their staff at the South Anchorage Farmers Market on Saturdays and at the Fire Island Airport Heights market on Wednesdays during the summer. During the winter they can be found at The Center Market on wednesdays.

“Our herbs and greens are also featured in meals at several restaurants around town including Spenard Roadhouse, Pangea Restaurant and Lounge, Originale, and Marco T’s Pizzeria. You can also find our produce in select products from Arctic Harvest Deliveries, Evie’s Brinery, the Anchorage Food Hub and the Alaska Food Network.”

01 Cultivation Unit rows | 02 Close up of Vertical Cultivation unit boxes 03 Lettuce close up | 04 Aisle full growth view CREDIT ALL IMAGES | AUTHOR

PROTOTYPE IMAGERY ASSEMBLING THE PERMABIORE AC TOR

P ROTOTYP E IM AGERY TESTING INITIAL START UP - DAY 01

01 Day 01 - First time power on, ensuring connections are solid 02 Day 01 - Preparing to take first sample | 03 Day 02 - Checking sample 01 against the light CREDIT ALL IMAGES | VALERIE VYVIAL

P ROTOTYP E IM AGERY TESTING EARLY STAGE CHECK IN - DAYS 02 | 03

01 Day 02 - Permabioreactor setup at Seeds of Change cultivation greenhouse testing site 02 Day 03 - Checking status of Permafrost inside the Vessel | 03 Day 03 - Detail close up of lids, focus on CTRL Reactor CREDIT ALL IMAGES | AUTHOR

P ROTOTYP E IM AGERY TESTING CONTINUOUS CHECK IN - DAYS 05 | 06

01 Day 05 - Permabioreactor setup at Seeds of Change cultivation greenhouse testing site, showing good growth 02 Day 06 - Checking status of Light Tube Airline connections | 03 Day 06 - Detail close up of PBR Laser Etching CREDIT ALL IMAGES | AUTHOR

P ROTOTYP E IM AGERY TESTING CONTINUOUS CHECK IN - DAYS 08

01 Day 08 - Close up of Sample Taking, earlier samples set in suspension plate 02 Day 08 - Detail close up of Air and Permafrost Vessels 03 Day 08 - Detail close up of Sample Test Tube and Arduino Sensor CREDIT ALL IMAGES | AUTHOR

P ROTOTYP E IM AGERY TESTING FINAL CHECK IN - DAYS 11 | 12

01 Day 11 - Close up of PBR growth and final samples in place 02 Day 11 - Detail close up of Test Tube Sample | 03 Day 12 - Turning off the Arduino Sensor CREDIT ALL IMAGES | AUTHOR

POST ANALYSIS

CREDIT | AUTHOR

ANALYSES + RESULT S All of the results were recorded as per the schedule. General recordings were taken daily to ensure overall system efficiency and log relevant information during the cultivation period. Specific information pertaining to Carbon Dioxide release by Permafrost Thawing was measured separately and logged manually due to technical digital data logging issues.

19/12/03

18/12/04

18/12/05

18/12/06

18/12/07

18/12/08

18/12/09

18/12/10

18/12/11

18/12/12

18/12/13

18/12/14

CTRL TEMP °C

30,1

30,5

30,8

31,1

31,6

31,8

31,9

32,2

32,6

33,1

33,4

HEATER TEMP °C

WATER PH

8,5

9,5

PBR + CTRL

20/4

7800 ml

150 ml

160 g

80 g

20,5

WEIGHT 1

542 g

271 g

WEIGHT 2

646 g

517 g

WEIGHT g

567 g

397 g

-14

-6

LIGHT CYCLE ON/OFF WATER TOP UP NUTRIENT ADDITION GREENHOUSE TEMP °C RH % PERMA CORES

TEMP °C PERMA 01

AUTC6 7’ (65.5562°N, 148.9050°W; depth 2.1 m; length ~17 cm, diameter ~5 cm)

SILT/WATER

50/50

PERMA 02

AUTC7 4’ (65.5573°N, 148.9080°W; depth 1.2 m; length ~22 cm, diameter ~5 cm)

SILT/WATER

80/20

PERMA 03

AUTC9 39’ (65.5605°N, 148.9119°W; depth 1.9 m; length ~18 cm, diameter ~5 cm)

SILT/WATER

70/30

SPIRULINA

AT Spirulina Delight (16 oz) - Live Arthrospira platensis Phytoplankton Food for Aquarium Animals and Grow at Home kits

COMMENTS O N F I N DI NGS TEST

Internal PBR and CTRL Temps consistently increased during cultivation. Indicating an increase due to Algal growth. Water PH increased over time, it is likely that after the ~14 day mark PH regulation would be required. Permafrost thawed very rapidly, this is not representative of reality and thus presents a flaw in testing. PPM levels for control measurements remained consistent and thus provided a good base reference measurement. Permafrost thawed showed a notable increase in the PPM which stabilised after day 3 of thawing.

18/11/23

18/11/24

18/11/25

18/11/26

18/11/27

18/11/28

18/11/29

CONTROL

THAW

CONTROL

19,5

18,5

19,5

INDOOR TEMP

19 CO2

09:30:00 AM

586

587

585

590

601

604

590

10:00:00 AM

582

588

593

598

603

585

10:30:00 AM

582

590

584

589

604

606

585

11:00:00 AM

589

587

583

590

601

588

11:30:00 AM

585

589

582

589

603

604

589

12:00:00 PM

588

587

584

592

604

599

582

12:30:00 PM

583

586

588

591

600

584

01:00:00 PM

579

588

590

594

603

604

584

01:30:00 PM

585

587

588

596

604

607

580

02:00:00 PM

582

584

587

592

602

588

02:30:00 PM

587

581

586

594

604

602

587

03:00:00 PM

588

583

586

594

599

600

586

03:30:00 PM

585

583

588

598

603

604

584

04:00:00 PM

588

581

589

596

603

583

04:30:00 PM

582

585

588

597

604

583

AIR VESSEL C02 PPM READINGS

PERMAFROST

620

is thawed and releases CO 2

615

610

CO 2 + AIR

605

is pumped into photobioreactors

600

START OF DAY

END OF DAY

595 590 585 580 575 570 565 560

CONTROL

DAY 1

DAY 2

THAWING

DAY 3

DAY 4

DAY 5

CONTROL

DAY 6

DAY 7

S P IRU LINA A LGA E GROWT H Each day of testing 40ml of Liquid was extracted from the system to record its PH and serve as a visual reference for the rate of growth of the Spirulina algae.

RANGE OF CULTURE DENSIT Y

The rate of growth exhibited by the Spirulina Algae appears to be ~1.5X its density developed per day for the 12 growing days. Viscocity of the culture medium increased noticeably during the second half of the cultivation period. These observations appear to be in line with research which generally concludes that consistent harvesting of Spirulina can occur post ~14 day cultivation mark.

DAY 01

DAY 02

DAY 03

DAY 04

DAY 05

DAY 06

TEMP 30 PH 8.5

TEMP 30.1 PH 8.5

TEMP 30.5 PH 8.5

TEMP 30.8 PH 9.0

TEMP 31.1 PH 9.0

TEMP 31.6 PH 9.0

DAY 07

DAY 08

DAY 09

DAY 10

DAY 11

DAY 12

TEMP 31.8 PH 9.0

TEMP 31.9 PH 9.5

TEMP 32.2 PH 9.5

TEMP 32.6 PH 9.5

TEMP 33.1 PH 10.0

TEMP 33.4 PH 10.0

EXPEDITION COMMENT S Following the fieldwork, testing, results and overall experience, the major take aways directly related to the device which I have drawn are discussed below, these deal primarily eith the consideration of the functional aspects of the prototype, a distinctive element lacking from its narrative in the way which it interacted with its environment and finally materials considerations.

MISSED OPPORTUNITY

Looking back at some of my references, one thing which my prototype lacked above all I feel is the deliberate consideration and inclusion of an element of interaction. This represents a missed opportunity by failure to design in a manner in which a viewer becomes a user by interacting with the device by for example harvesting and consuming the algae directly, or drying it out for example.

LACKING INTERACTION

The lack of interaction when it comes to the aim of device to serve a primary function of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;starting dialogue of posibilitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is due largely to the aforementioned lack of functionality. Had I further considered this I think that this obvious lack would have been filled and given the prototype a more rich impact.

INNAPPROPRIATE MATERIALS

Largely due to time restraints, The materials used for the reactor lids was innappropriate in this setting and given the conditions for performance. It did not offer a sufficient enough fit onto the acrylic housings, and more importantly was not properly sealed/water tight. This meant that any water which spilled into the lids was absorbed and thus expanded the MDF. The lids became swollen and damaged beyond repair.

LACK OF CONTINGENCY

Following the earthquake, my CO2 sensor remained functional for only a further 2 days (the days in which control measurements were taken post thawing of permafrost), This was due to the shaking of the earthquake causing water to leak out of the prototype and spill onto the sensor equipment. I had with me a spare arduino board and LCD, however given monetary restrictions I was unable to purchase a spare sensor and thus should have taken greater precautions to protect it.

P OTENTIA L S O LU TIO N SYNTHESI S Assisted by the thawing of permafrost, the Algae continued to grow and thrive during cultivation inside the constructed reactors. The Permabioreactor serves as a starting point for the dialogue which may one day occur when searching for solutions to these two invistigative themes which have been dealt with herein. The final question here then is whether or not this technological solution could become a viable reality in the future?

CA RIBOU RAW

SPIRULI NA DRY

PROGRAMME DEFINITION

CREDIT | AUTHOR

BLUEPRINT . ANCHOR|AGE 2050 SCRAMBLE FOR SECURITY My Thesis will explore the outcomes and effects climate change is likely (or certain) to have on the city of Anchorage and state of Alaska. Looking toward and set in a speculative Anchorage of 2050, it will foreshadow how Technology + Architecture might respond to Agri-Industrial, Energy, Economic and Populational idiosyncrasies of the City + State - with the aim of investigating realistic and innovative potential solutions to the relevant challenges of today, exacerbated by climate change tomorrow.

LOCATION THESIS PROGRAMME SITE DATE SPECULATIVE PLACE IN TIME SCENARIOS TO 2050 SHELL PLANNING FRAMEWORK

B L U E P R I N T . A N C H O R | AG E 2 0 5 0 SCRAMBLE FOR SECURITY

PRIMARY THEME FOOD SECURITY, AGRICULTURE + PRODUCTION

FRAMEWORK GLOBAL GOALS Given the themes and topics which I became interested in, the following UN Global goals will serve as the meta framework within which the thesis programme will take place + respond to + keep in mind. |

TIMELINE + INTENTION SPECULATING ANCHORAGE 2050 Here is the story of Anchorage, Alaska. Not as it exists today; but how it might come to be ‘tomorrow’. As climate change continues to mar our planet and prospects of comfortable and sustainable habitability, Alaska endures the adverse consequences of climate change at a pace twice that of the average global rate. My thesis will investigate the potential outcomes, solutions and problematics which may become reality in the city of Anchorage when bearing in mind the on-going and in-coming impacts of global warming through a speculative lens. Leading up to and set in Anchorage 2050, this story underpins the probable effects and outcomes which might influence three principal themes; namely food production and security, energy resources and generation and finally population distributions and development. The central intention is to instantiate a discourse whereby ‘negative and positive’ implications of climate change have materialised in numerous ways throughout the city and state along a projected timeline. Firmly anchored to reality, it is set within the scenario-planning framework of the Royal Dutch Shell company’s: ‘Shell energy scenarios to 2050 – Blueprints and Scramble’ and, furthermore, considers closely the status-quo of todays geo-political and economic landscape. (‘Shell energy scenarios to 2050’, 2008) The story draws heavily from and builds upon the current state-of-affairs, recent news, discoveries and discussions being had within the selected thematic spheres in Anchorage and Alaska today, and is too, inspired by our recent field trip to Alaska where much of my time was spent in Anchorage itself.

THEMATIC EXPLORATION Following fom the primary topics which the prototype looked at, my thesis and programme will tackle these same themes more in detail as well as at a larger scale which considers impacts from a global down to an individual scale. Within each theme, however, relevance and significance is given based on the outcomes and interests developed through the fieldwork prototype and during the trip in general. For me, this interest lies mostly with the Food Production + Agricultural sectors.

THEMES + PROGRAMME OVERV I E W

ARCHITECTURAL

FO O D P RO D UCT ION + AG RICULT URE (P R I M A RY)

Hydroponic production + distribution facility (extension of Seeds of Change model + Amazon Air prime) Matanuska.Susitna Valley Greenhouse Fuel Units (extension of Sem01 Prototype)

D ETAIL ED D EV ELOP M ENT DESI GNED TEC TONI C I NTERVENTI ON

Permafrost Greenhouse Food Units (extension of Sem01 Prototype) STRATEGIC

Algal Biosequentration implemented in the city (extension of bio-digital urban curtain experiment)

E NE RGY SOURC ES + P RODUCT ION

Graphene Processing + Battery production facility (extension of Port discussion + Tesla Energy Innovation R&D)

SCHEM ATIC P L ANNING

Nome Graphite Creek Development

SPECULATED NETWORK + ELEMENT S

Beiring Straight trade bolstering Solar Industry (extension of Climate Change)

P O P UL ATION DIST RIB UT ION + C IVIC SPAC E

Density and sprawl, additional people + additional civic space

The distinction between Architectural and Strategic themes is the level of detail into which my thesis will delve. This is to say that from a more intimate and complex standpoint; this thesis will focus heavily on 01 Food Production + Agriculture as the primary theme and thus architectonic design development and consideration. 02 Energy Sources + Production and 03 Population Distribution + Civic Space will serve as larger, more broad scale thematic considerations where a design of system or network will take prevalence.

PRIMARY THEME The programme for my thesis will aim to respond to the observed challenges in Anchorage of today; and intimately consider the impending difficulties of tomorrow. This production + distribution facility will need to exist as a standalone entity, as well as a node within a network; its goal is not to merely produce and sell, but rather to offer a civic space which brings delight to those in multiple shapes and forms; whether it be shelter from the cold or a place to reminisce.

FOOD PROD UCT I ON + AG R I CULT URE ( P RI M A RY )

CITY

Hydroponic production + distribution facility Hydroponics Cultivation Drone Port Learning Center Community Market Place Green Square

Localised all year production Air transport reliance Skills for cultivation competencies Providing biophilic civic space Serves the community beyond strip malls and supermarkets

STATE

Matanuska.Susitna Valley Greenhouse Fuel Units Agri-Industrial Lightweight Greenhouses Nanochloropsis sp. Photobioreactor Array

Biofuels mandate 2020+

Permafrost Greenhouse Food Units Geo-Industrial Lightweight Greenhouses Spirulina sp. Photobioreactor Array

Food insecurity + permafrost thaw Localisation of production

INCOME GENERATING

HYDROP ON IC P RODUCTION + DISTRIBUT ION FAC ILIT Y

HYDROPONICS CULTIVATION Indoor growing spaces run through a community programme Modular technologies which can be proliferated

DRONE PORT Lightweight fast response delivery technologies Reaction to damaged intrastatal infrastructure network

COMMUNITY MARKET PLACE

NON-PROFIT

Reactionary measures to commercial status-quo Farm to table principles reaction to status-quo

LEARNING CENTER Distinct lack of places of learning + vocation for local experise

GREEN SQUARE Bio-philic civic space reaction to status-quo Space for warmth and escape from grey | cold