19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia curated by Carlo Ratti. Intelligens. Natural. Artificial,Â
Arsenale Exhibition: Matter Makes Sense
Geological Microbial Formations explores biocementation as a radical approach to transforming construction waste into architectural materials. It merges biotechnology, robotic fabrication, and design to showcase the potential of living organisms to create novel material processes. Biomineralization is a natural process where diverse microorganisms favor precipitate calcium carbonate (CaCO3) minerals. Sporosarcina pasteurii is a bacteria widely known to facilitate microbial calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP), which effectively binds aggregates into solid structures under mild, low-energy conditions.
The installation features a robotic arm executing a biofabrication sequence inspired by stromatolites—layered mineral formations created over time by microbial activity. The robot deposits aggregates in layers and sprays a bioactive mixture along with calcium-rich agents, initiating a dynamic biomineralization process. Visitors witness material formation in real time, creating unique solid material artifacts through time.
Surrounding the robotic system, completed artifacts and material samples demonstrate the versatility of biomineralization to apply with various construction waste materials. Microscopic videos reveal the dynamics of the biological and biochemical reactions that drive MICP, providing a better understanding of the material formation at the micro-scale. These visuals reveal the intricacies of calcium carbonate crystal formation and microbial activity, deepening the understanding of the process.
Geological Microbial Formations reimagine construction rubble as a resource, reducing waste and dependency on raw materials while fostering closed material loops in construction practices. It invites audiences to critically engage with the role of living systems in material production, envisioning a future where biotechnology transforms how we design and build, emphasizing a possible sustainable practice in the built environment.
More Information coming soon.