ETH Zurich researchers have developed a 3D‑printable “living” building material: a hydrogel infused with photosynthetic cyanobacteria that extracts CO₂ from the atmosphere and converts it into both biomass and stable minerals—effectively turning buildings into active carbon sinks newsbytesapp
1. Dual Carbon Sequestration Mechanism
The embedded cyanobacteria perform photosynthesis—trapping CO₂ as organic biomass—while simultaneously producing carbonate minerals like lime, enabling long-term carbon storage and structural reinforcement
2. Sustained CO₂ Capture Over 400 Days
Lab studies show this living material absorbs about 26 mg of CO₂ per gram, sustained for over 400 days, with most carbon stored in mineral form
3. Architecturally Adaptable & 3D‑Print Friendly
The hydrogel is 3D‑printable into porous, high-surface-area shapes, optimizing light exposure and nutrient flow for the cyanobacteria. This adaptability enables creative uses—from façades to interior installations
4. Real-World Installations Debut
Prototypes have already been showcased at the Venice Architecture Biennale and Triennale di Milano, including tree-trunk–like installations that can capture roughly 18 kg CO₂ annually per structure—comparable to a 20‑year-old pine
5. Eco-Friendly and Resilient
This bio-engineered material requires only sunlight, water, nutrients, and environmental CO₂. It evolves over time—hardening as minerals accumulate—potentially offering a fully low-energy, sustainable construction solution
✅ Why It Matters
- Transforms buildings into carbon-removing systems—directly tackling climate change through infrastructure.
- Marries architecture and biology for aesthetic, sustainable designs.
- Low environmental footprint—no heavy processing, scalable with existing 3D printing tech.
- Durability boosts structural integrity, offering longevity and continuous CO₂ storage.
