CyanoGems: Photosynthetic Architecture
A Technion Project Using Bacteria and 3D-Printed Sand, Featured at Triennale Milano
CyanoGems is an interdisciplinary project that integrates bacteria into 3D-printed models made of sand
An interdisciplinary research project conducted at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology is currently being showcased at Triennale Milano – a prestigious international exhibition of architecture and design. This year’s theme is We the Bacteria – Notes Toward Biotic Architecture.
The project, CyanoGems, demonstrates the potential of integrating biological processes into architectural systems by developing renewable and sustainable materials, in response to the significant role of the construction industry in the climate crisis—cement production alone is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
CyanoGems presents an innovative technology that incorporates photosynthetic microorganisms capable of carbon fixation, biofilm production, and mineral deposition (biomineralization). These microorganisms act as a sustainable alternative to cement by binding sand particles within 3D-printed structures. CyanoGems is featured as part of the “Bacterial Garden” section.
The project is led by Assistant Professor Shany Barath from the Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning and Prof. Yehezkel Kashi from the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, in collaboration with PhD student Perla Armaly, master’s student Yuval Berger, and Dr. Lubov Illiasafov.
The 24th Triennale Milano – which runs until November 9, 2025 – features 16 groundbreaking research projects from around the world, all focused on impacting the built environment through biological processes and living building materials.
Photo Credit: Disrupt.Design Lab
