Energy generating Smart bricks
Energy generating Smart bricks Newcastle University is developing construction bricks composed of biofilm that can harness solar energy, wastewater, and air pollution and turn them into usable resources. The living bricks fit together to create ‘bioreactor walls’ that can be programmed to perform all sorts of functions. The inventors say the new, sustainable construction material could be worked into homes, public buildings, and office spaces. The interdisciplinary project involves experts from the universities of the West of England (UWE Bristol), Trento, the Spanish National Research Council; LIQUIFER Systems Group, and EXPLORA. Inside each brick is a microbial fuel cell which is filled with programmable synthetic microorganisms. A variety of microorganisms will reside in each chamber, specifically designed to perform one of a number of functions, including purifying water, reclaiming phosphate from the air, generating electricity, and creating detergents. Robotically activated and digitally coordinated, these bricks are as smart as they are savvy, capable of turning ordinary buildings into efficient machines.
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