Hamburg, Germany, is pioneering the world's first algae-powered building, a revolutionary structure that harnesses renewable energy from microalgae to supply hot water, lighting, heating, and electricity. The architects behind this project envision a future where urban architecture is biologically integrated, functioning like living organisms that adapt to their environment and interact with residents.
While this concept is impressive, the London-based design studio Loop pH believes there's more to be done. According to them, future architects must not only master science and design but also embrace art. Inspired by the chemical bonds in biological molecules, Loop pH created the "SOL Dome," a unique lighting art museum that blends aesthetics with sustainability.
The SOL Dome is a lightweight structure made from composite fibers, powered entirely by solar energy. Its most striking feature is its ability to change brightness and color based on carbon dioxide levels in the air. This dynamic response makes it feel alive, as if the building is breathing with its surroundings.
Constructed from thousands of interconnected, ultra-lightweight modules, each measuring 8 meters long and 4 meters wide, the entire structure weighs just 40 kg—making it the lightest house in the world. Assembling the dome involved weaving these fibers into circular rings and connecting them into a honeycomb pattern. In October 2023, during the “Fall In Art and Sol†solar festival in the U.S., the Loop pH team and volunteers built the structure in just three days.
Each LED fiber optic ring acts like a charged battery at night, glowing softly and creating an immersive experience. The artistic concept of the SOL Dome is “taking nature and sensing nature,†emphasizing harmony between human life and the environment. The composite fibers contain both LED lights and CO₂ sensors, allowing the building to shift colors and rhythms depending on the surrounding air quality.
As sunlight and COâ‚‚ levels fluctuate, the dome transforms into a living canvas of shifting hues, mimicking the breath of a living organism. At night, when COâ‚‚ concentrations rise, the colors deepen, giving the illusion of a building that is alive and responsive. These visual transformations make the night feel more vibrant and connected to the natural world.
Loop pH sees the SOL Dome as a foundation for future architecture—buildings that can adapt like living beings. Their goal is to bring advanced scientific research into public spaces, making art accessible to everyone and helping people understand the future of sustainable living.
Garne Ulm, who leads the development of algae-powered buildings, shares a similar vision. With the global population expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, and 75% living in cities, the pressure on natural resources will grow significantly. Future cities will need to integrate green spaces, water recycling systems, and smart, responsive buildings that can adapt to environmental changes.
Since 2003, Loop pH has worked on projects that merge science, design, and community needs, including neighborhood revitalization and the renovation of Kensington Palace. Their mission is to create environments that are both functional and thought-provoking, encouraging people to reflect on nature and the universe.
Humans have always sought to transcend nature, flying like birds or shaping the world according to their will. But in the future, rather than resisting nature, we will learn from it. Architects will look to the laws of the natural world, seeking inspiration from “living buildings†that are not just structures, but ecosystems that support both people and the planet.
Valve Diaphragm
Diaphragm is also called membrane, which is a very important sealing component of the valve. NINGBO DOTEC manufactures various diaphragms for pulse valves and solenoid valves. We use all high quality raw materials to ensure long service life.
Valve Diaphragm Types:
1. GOYEN Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
2. ASCO Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
3. SBFEC Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
4. TURBO Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
5. MECAIR Type Pulse Valve Dipahragm
6. JOIL Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
7. Norgren Buschjost Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
8. AUTEL Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
9. TAEHA Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
10. Other Pulse Valve Diaphragm
11. Water Solenoid Valve Diaphragm
Pulse Valve Diaphragm, Solenoid Valve Diaphragm, Pulse Valve Membrane, Pulse Jet Valve Diaphragm
NINGBO DOTEC AUTOMATION CO., LTD , https://www.ningbodotec.com