“This 3D-Printed Bridge Breathes Like Human Bones and Cleans CO₂ Like a Boss”
Concrete is a versatile material, but it is also one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, generating around 8% of global CO₂ emissions. In a groundbreaking project called Diamanti, a team of researchers has developed a bridge that “breathes” and aims to revolutionize sustainable construction.
Biological inspiration and precise engineering
The design of Diamanti draws inspiration from the internal structure of human bones, using Voronoi patterns to distribute load efficiently without the need for solid material. By incorporating diatomaceous earth into the concrete mix, the bridge is able to capture 142% more CO₂ than traditional concrete, reducing its carbon footprint significantly.
Modularity and energy efficiency
The Diamanti bridge is constructed using 3D-printed modules assembled on-site with tension cables, allowing for quicker, more economical, and sustainable infrastructure development. This innovative technique not only reduces costs but also decreases energy consumption and emissions by up to 25% compared to traditional methods.
France to host the first functional bridge
Originally planned for Venice, the first operational bridge will now be installed in France, where it has received approval for construction. Considered a symbol of ecological and biomimetic design, the bridge could potentially be built over the Seine River in Paris, showcasing the innovative use of 3D-printed concrete with carbon-absorbing properties for public use.
The future of construction
The team behind Diamanti is not stopping at bridges; they are also working on floor systems and modular structures based on the same principles of porous geometries that optimize strength, weight, and carbon absorption. This approach represents a new architectural philosophy that learns from nature to create materials that work in harmony with the environment, paving the way for a future where buildings and bridges are not just sustainable but actively contribute to addressing climate change.
