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Luminescent Bacteria and Membrane Technologies in Sustainable Seawater Purification

Authors:
Naijie Chen, Zewei Chen, Weitao Kwan
Luminescent Bacteria and Membrane Technologies in Sustainable Seawater Purification

Project in-detail

Utilizing luminescent bacteria and advanced membrane technologies, the design efficiently transforms polluted seawater into safe drinking and domestic water, addressing critical water scarcity issues.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes luminescent bacteria to enhance water purification.
02
Incorporates multiple types of semipermeable membranes for efficiency.
03
Design allows for remote control and automation of purification processes.
04
Features a dual output system for domestic and drinking water.
05
Focuses on environmental sustainability and the extraction of radioactive substances.

The design focuses on a purification device that treats polluted seawater, changing it into usable resources for domestic and drinking water. This project addresses the issue of growing water scarcity, aiming to find practical solutions to environmental concerns. The design integrates advanced technology with a structure that is both functional and engaging, promoting public interest in the purification process.

Purification System Components

The purification device diagram shows several key components, including a water inlet, raw material liquid, and pressure control and auxiliary regulator. It features various types of semipermeable membranes, particularly microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis. These membranes work together to efficiently separate and purify seawater, creating distinct sources for domestic and drinking water. Additionally, the design acknowledges the potential removal and solidification of radioactive substances that may be present in seawater.

Technological Integration

A significant focus of the design is the use of advanced technologies. Membrane separation and biomembrane technology play crucial roles in the purification process. The system also incorporates luminescent bacteria, which enhance both functionality and visual appeal. This automated and remotely controlled design represents a modern approach to water purification, blending technology with creative expression to engage the public in its operation.

Spatial Organization

The project includes detailed section views and floor plans that illustrate how the space is arranged. The internal layout is designed to optimize workflows while allowing easy access for users and visitors. This thoughtful spatial organization balances practicality with user engagement, making the purification system approachable and informative for anyone interested in its operation.

Design Detail

The incorporation of semipermeable membranes as a central material underscores the commitment to finding innovative water treatment solutions. These membranes are essential for achieving effective purification outcomes. As the system operates, it displays a harmonious balance of function and design, highlighting the important conversation around water quality and sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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