The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and BVN Architecture have received the Green Building Material/Product Award at the Australian Sustainability Awards for their innovative 3D printed air diffusion system, Systems Reef 2 (SR2). This energy efficient design, inspired by the respiratory system of frogs, aims to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial buildings.
Traditional air distribution systems, which have seen little innovation over the past century, do not adapt to individual spaces and cannot easily adapt to changes in work or living environments. In contrast, the SR2 uses an aerodynamic design with fine pores to spray fresh air throughout the space instead of concentrating it in one spot.
UTS and BVN selected recycled PETG plastic for the SR2, ensuring that it is fully recyclable at the end of its useful life. This decision is in line with its commitment to the circular economy approach.
The SR2 prototype is currently installed at the BVN Sydney office, and you can see it in the image below (it’s the biggest thing on the roof).
“The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to global waste, one of the largest consumers of energy and materials, and has some of the most significant contributions to CO2 emissions,” says Tim Schork, an adjunct professor at the UTS School of Architecture.
“Compared to Australia, there are even more buildings around the world whose air diffusion systems need to be upgraded. It would be great to see SR2 implemented in other parts of the world.
The SR2 system is versatile and is not limited to office environments. It can be integrated into various spaces, such as supermarkets, hotels, retail stores, and residential properties, and offers an alternative to many outdated air duct systems in need of replacement.
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