Algae Oil Fields

System Concept

Adaptive re-use of the Grissom oil field into an algae oil field and desalination center.

Seawater is filtered through pressurized tubes, producing fresh water and co2. The co2 is fed to algae growing in glass tubes.  Algae is processed into fuel powering the desalination tubes and stored in existing oil tanks. Existing pipelines bring fresh water and fuel to the main land.

​The algae and seawater tubes are exposed for people to explore.

Program Massing Studies

Form Concept

Algae tubes are raised to different heights to give every tube exposure to natural light. The exhibit becomes the form of the building, allowing for a heightened level of interaction between people and the technology. Undulating tubes over platforms create a variety of spatial experiences, from intimate spaces to cavern like chambers, ideal for a variety of program types.

Plan & Elevation

Algae System Details

Fuel produced from algae is carbon neutral and an ideal energy source for uses where electricity cannot be adequately stored. A framework of pipes flush algae to the processing center. Algae is processed into oil and is piped to the mainland using existing infrastructure. Oil is used to fuel the desalination process.

Algae Tube Growth Process

Algae Processing and Distribution

Water System Details

Fresh water will be as needed in the 21st century, as petroleum was in the 20th century.​​

Seawater is pushed through a membrane filter to produce fresh water and pumped to the mainland using existing pipes and infrastructure. The system is raised so people can watch the entire process from below.

Seawater Filtration Canopies

Seawater Tube Filtration Process

Seawater Processing and Distribution

Structural System Details

Algae and desalination tubes are slotted into prefabricated steel structures assembled on site. Tubes can be replaced for testing as technology improves.

Arched Canopy Structure Supports Undulating Tubes

Prefabricated Structure Module