3D Printing Could Help Fight Coastal Erosion

Coastal erosion is defined as the loss or displacement of land along the coastline. The main causes of this natural phenomenon are the depletion of soil organic matter (sand, rock) as well as the degradation of soil structure or problems of salinization and acidification. And it’s a huge issue worldwide, one that is only growing due to climate change. In fact, according to the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit, in the US alone coastal erosion is responsible for about $500 million per year in coastal property loss with average coastline recession rates between 25 and 50 feet per year not uncommon in parts of the country.

In order to fight against coastal erosion, there are a number of different initiatives that have been put in place. One of them integrates the 3D printing process for the manufacture of biodegradable structures. In collaboration with BESE, Australian researchers from the Blue Carbon Lab at Deakin University are using this technology to support the growth of species in wetlands, and thus fight against coastal erosion. The idea is to place mangrove seeds in 3D printed mesh frames in Port Phillip and Western Port Bay, Australia.

Structures help promote mangrove growth (photo credits: BESE)

Fostering Coastal Ecosystems Through 3D Printing

Called BESE-elements®, the 3D printed structures are made from compostable potato starch derived from industrial waste. And though no information was given on the technology used, with this type of material, FDM 3D printing certainly seems like a possibility. These mesh frames were produced by BESE, a company that specializes in designing products for natural habitat restoration. They degrade naturally after 2 to 10 years, depending on the ecosystem in which it is used. The structures were designed to promote root growth of mangrove seeds. Because of their lattice shape, they slow down the movement of water, allowing the soil to better recover and accumulate water. In addition, the structures stabilize the plant to prevent it from detaching from the soil.