SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP
21/10/2013.
[VIDEO] By arupgroup. [Hamburg] Germany
metalocus, ALEX DURO
metalocus, ALEX DURO
This new proposal by ARUP consists in a bioreactor façade which, through the CO2 and the daylight, seeks to generate a heating system, hot water, and biomass, a raw material really useful in energetic terms. The project has as goal the compliance of the standard of zero energy houses which will be obligatory in Germany and other European countries from 2020.
Façade detail. SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP. Photograph © courtesy of ARUP. Click above to see larger image.
Outside vision. SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP. Photograph © courtesy of ARUP. Click above to see larger image.
Façade detail. SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP. Photograph © courtesy of ARUP. Click above to see larger image.
Constructive detail. SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP. Image © courtesy of ARUP. Click above to see larger image.
Energy saving. SolarLeaf, the bioreactor façade by ARUP. Image © courtesy of ARUP. Click above to see larger image.
This new system is applicable to new buildings and to existing buildings and the procedure consists on turn light into biomass and heat.
Project concept. Image © courtesy of ARUP
How SolarLeafm works:
The flat photobioreactors are highly efficient for algal growth and need minimal maintenance.
SolarLeaf’s bioreactors have four glass layers. The two inner panes have a 24-litre capacity cavity for circulating the growing medium. Either side of these panes, insulating argon-filled cavities help to minimise heat loss. The front glass panel consists of white antireflective glass, while the glass on the back can integrate decorative glass treatments.
Compressed air is introduced to the bottom of each bioreactor at intervals. The gas emerges as large air bubbles and generates an upstream water flow and turbulence to stimulate the algae to take in CO2 and light. At the same time, a mixture of water, air and small plastic scrubbers washes the inner surfaces of the panels. SolarLeaf integrates all servicing pipes for the inflow and outflow of the culture medium and the air into the frames of its elements.
Text.- ARUP.
