A team of researchers in Switzerland has developed a new “living” material that absorbs carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and stores it in both living tissue and a solid form, offering a promising, low-energy solution in the fight against climate change.
The breakthrough material contains cyanobacteria, tiny ancient algae known for their ability to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into oxygen and sugars. This natural process, known as photosynthesis, enables the algae to purify the air while sustaining its life.
In its early stage, the material is soft and jelly-like. However, when exposed to light, carbon dioxide, and key nutrients such as calcium and magnesium, the algae begin to build tiny mineral particles inside the gel.
These mineral formations trap carbon in a solid, stable state while also strengthening the material over time. Without this process, the material would remain fragile and unsuitable as a construction material. They shared their findings in a science journal called Nature Communications.
New gel-based structure gets stronger with time
“The material can store carbon not only in biomass, but also in the form of minerals—a special property of these cyanobacteria,” said Mark Tibbitt, a lead researcher and professor at ETH Zurich.
The material is made using a water-rich substance called hydrogel, which contains small holes to allow light, air, and water through. Scientists used 3D printing to shape the hydrogel, which supported algae growth and prolonged their activity. According to the study, the green color of the material deepens as the algae absorb more carbon, providing a visual cue of their activity.
While algae growth slows after approximately 30 days, the material continues to extract carbon from the atmosphere. In laboratory tests, it has sequestered carbon for more than 400 days, storing approximately 26 milligrams (5.73 pounds) of carbon per gram of material, significantly more than other natural systems typically achieve.
Researchers eye architectural uses for real-world impact
To test its strength and design potential, the team shaped the material into objects resembling tree trunks and displayed them at an architecture exhibition in Venice. Each trunk-like unit could absorb up to 40 pounds of carbon dioxide annually—roughly equal to what a 20-year-old pine tree removes from the air in a year.
Researchers suggest the material might eventually be applied to building exteriors to passively decrease carbon levels in urban areas. However, challenges remain. In the study, nutrients were supplied using artificial seawater, and scientists are now exploring ways to deliver those nutrients to large surfaces without soaking them.
Cyanobacteria, the key ingredient in the material, have lived on Earth for billions of years and are capable of functioning even in low light. Their efficient carbon processing makes them ideal for this application.
Further research may involve enhancing the bacteria’s natural functions through genetic modification to increase their carbon capture ability, the team noted.
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