Following the bubble biotechnology playground project built in Warsaw, ecoLogicStudio now displays the bubble air purification eco-machine, which has been installed in front of the Glasgow Science Center in the COP26 green area. The project formed an inflatable structure made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) pockets, embedded with a green bioreactor, and used algae to filter the air. This new bio-digital project was developed in collaboration with otrivin and demonstrates how the advanced integration of biotechnology in the built environment can lead to a new generation of living and growing buildings.

The bubbles were launched in front of the Glasgow Science Centre in the green zone of COP26

All images are provided by ecoLogicStudio

The structure of ecoLogicStudio integrates a series of sensors to detect the air quality in the bubbles, and a series of accelerometers to sense wind and vibration caused by individuals interacting with the device. These devices trigger a series of responsive growth lighting, which in turn supports algae photosynthesis, thereby increasing air purification rates. In other words, this bio-digital organism introduces a new symbiotic relationship. The more people playing and jumping in the bubble, the cleaner the air.

Through this project, the London-based studio aims to encourage tourists, especially children, to directly experience the air purification capabilities cultivated by microalgae, while immersing themselves in the oxygen bubbles of fresh metabolism. The playful and soft characteristics of the organic structure are reminiscent of the giant elastic jellyfish, and it is also a direct manifestation of the biotechnology it uses.

Jump in "bubbles"

According to the creator, this air purification eco-machine contains 6,000 liters of water per minute, supports 200 liters of live chlorella culture and filters 100 liters of polluted urban air. The air and water pressure are enclosed by a TPU membrane of only 0.5 mm thickness, which accounts for only 5% by weight and 1% by volume of the entire structure. The strength of the structure is derived from its three-dimensional cellular organization. In order to achieve this goal, the device was completely unfolded into nearly 100 CNC-cut flat parts, and then these parts were welded in place to form a completely three-dimensional matrix of gas-filled batteries.

This process updates the traditional qualities of inflatable structures to create this newly introduced ecological machine. The resulting structure appears as a response system with air purification capabilities, excellent wind resistance and unique expandability. The lightness of the empty film gives it a unique low embodied carbon and minimizes emissions related to transportation, installation and disassembly.

Name: Bubble | Air Purification Ecological Machine Architect: ecoLogicStudio

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