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About this episode

2008/09 Vertical Communities (David Nicholson-Cole Studio)C_NET2 - Tom Stroud, Mark Hall, Wing Ngai & Ben StuartThe 240m high CNet2 Algae-Hydrogen generating tower would make enough electricity to power the tower and 4 others. This design explores the opportunities in carbon capture, storage and re-use through algae cultivation. A soup of algae is circulated through glass tubes in the diagrid facade and solar shading louvres. Stimulated photosynthesis by the strong sunlight, these absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere whilst releasing oxygen and nitrogen, acting as a filter for the city air. and when they pass through a low pressure tank, the algae release Hydrogen, that can be captured and used to power fuel cells and all the hydrogen powered cars of the inhabitants. After a short lifetime of circulating this way, the algae eventually become recyclable biomass for fertilizer and biofuel. Enough hydrogen will be generated in this manner to provide electricity for 1350 flats, or supply 592 Honda FCX cars annually. In addition to its energy generating abilities, the tower accommodates hydroponic farming facilities, an algae research center, residential apartments, a hotel and a high-level sky bar. The students produced a photomontage to show how similar towers could appear in other parts of London and of Chicago.

• Release Date

  Aug 25, 2009

• Runtime

  07:07