Greentech
Render of Greentech Tower in Central Park
© Clara Schmelter de Escobar, Franziska Hagenauer
GREENTECH is an algae facade system that won the Samsung Solve for tomorrow challenge (2022)
The facade consists of windows as well as of individual clay panels, which are attached to a metal structure. The algae are sprayed onto the clay using a drone whereupon an algal biofilm forms. A tank under the rooftop collects rain water. 160,000 litres of rainwater can be collected on an area of 200m2 and released in a sponge-like manner over a long period of time. This provides storm water management and by evaporation, lowers the temperature of the facade surroundings by up to 1.9°C.
A solar powered weather station provides information which is transmitted to humidity sensors that control the valves for watering the panels. This way, constant algal activity can be provided, which absorbs 50% of solar radiation. Furthermore, 28% of CO2, 48% of PM and 47% of NO2 around the facade can be captivated.