feature / glass
In the history of solar-harvesting technologies, flat panels have been the dominant format. However, scientists and manufacturers are exploring novel formats that exhibit certain benefits over flat panels. Barcelona-based Rawlemon has developed a technology called β.Torics that uses large, fluid-filled glass spheres to harness sunlight. The company claims that this [...]
feature / light
The surface of soap bubble is commonly understood as a micro-membrane. This membrane allows light to pass through it, displaying the color of the light on its surface. Scientists at the University of Tokyo, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Tsukuba have developed an ultra-thin and flexible BRDF screen using [...]
feature / mineral
Many lakes, ponds and rivers suffer from algae blooms and depleted dissolved oxygen as a direct result of excessive nutrients entering waterways after rainstorms. Phosphorus is the accelerant that causes algae blooms to grow rapidly. SorbtiveMEDIA is an oxide-coated water filtration system engineered to remove pollutants including phosphorus. It is [...]
feature / interactive
The Liquid Display is an ambient display comprised by a screen filled with liquid and programmed air bubbles. Developed by Nicolas Büchi, the interface consists of multiple water or water-based emulsion filled cubes. The Liquid Display is intended to convey information discretely—approaching the limits of perception—rather than the increasingly saturated [...]
digital
Developed by David Benjamin and Soo-in Yang, River Glow is a system of floating pods that monitors water quality and displays a variable light signal that is visible from the water or onshore. Each unit consists of an underwater pH probe, super bright LEDs, uncoated fiber-optic strands, and photovoltaics that [...]
paper
When water droplets fall on lotus leaves, they bead up into balls. Dubbed the “lotus effect,” this phenomenon occurs because the infinitesimal hairs coating the surface of the leaves repel water. Super hydrophobic coating is the technology by which the lotus effect is scientifically engineered and was developed for use [...]
mineral
The management of storm water runoff has become a significant environmental and economical challenge in cities. Conventional drainage systems are designed to carry water great distances to large municipal sewer systems. Moreover, storm water is often combined with other sewage, resulting in a significant quantity of waste water that must [...]
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