Effect of 3D printer enabled surface morphology and composition on coral growth in artificial reefs

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2021-03-29

Authors

Ilse Valenzuela Matus (Author) Other; Jorge Lino (Author) FEUP; Joaquim Góis (Author) FEUP; Augusto Barata da Rocha (Author) FEUP; Rui Neto (Author) Other; Carlos da Silva Mota (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Rapid Prototyping Journal

Vol. 27 No. 4

Pages: 692-706

ISSN: 1355-2546

Publisher: Emerald

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Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00T-SSE

DOI: 10.1108/rpj-07-2020-0165

Abstract (EN): Purpose The purpose of this paper is to prove and qualify the influence of textured surface substrates morphology and chemical composition on the growth and propagation of transplanted corals. Use additive manufacturing and silicone moulds for converting three-dimensional samples into limestone mortar with white Portland cement substrates for coral growth. Design/methodology/approach Tiles samples were designed and printed with different geometries and textures inspired by nature marine environment. Commercial coral frag tiles were analysed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to identify the main chemical elements. Raw materials and coral species were selected. New base substrates were manufactured and deployed into a closed-circuit aquarium to monitor the coral weekly evolution process and analyse the results obtained. Findings Experimental results provided positive statistical parameters for future implementation tests, concluding that the intensity of textured surface, interfered favourably in the coralline algae biofilm growth. The chemical composition and design of the substrates were determinant factors for successful coral propagation. Recesses and cavities mimic the natural rocks aspect and promoted the presence and interaction of other species that favour the richness of the ecosystem. Originality/value Additive manufacturing provided an innovative method of production for ecology restoration areas, allowing rapid prototyping of substrates with high complexity morphologies, a critical and fundamental attribute to guarantee coral growth and Crustose Coralline Algae. The result of this study showed the feasibility of this approach using three-dimensional printing technologies.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15