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BlueNet – Marine Microplastic Cleanup System

BlueNet is a modular, energy-self-sufficient system for coastal microplastic removal, using filtration + electrocoagulation and solar-tidal hybrid power in a 3D ocean-cleaning network.

  • A 3D microplastic system using solar-tidal power and electrocoagulation at sea.

  • Vertical eco-structure inspired by reefs, filtering coastal microplastics with hybrid power.

  • Flexible 3D layout allows scalable density adjustment based on different display scenarios.

  • Layered system for solar-powered, eco-friendly microplastic filtering in marine environments.

What it does

BlueNet builds a “float-hang-collect” network to capture surface/suspended microplastics. It uses electrocoagulation to cluster fine particles, powered by solar-tidal energy for efficient, eco-friendly purification.

Your inspiration

BlueNet was inspired by two things: the worsening global microplastic crisis in coastal zones, and natural systems like coral reefs, whale migration, and tidal flows, which are distributed, adaptive, and energy-efficient. These led to the idea of a “soft barrier” aligned with marine rhythms, turning technology into a protector of marine ecology.

How it works

BlueNet has three core components: (1) Floating platform with solar and tidal generators, offering power and anchoring. (2) Filtration system for large plastic at surface and shallow water. (3) Hanging underwater modules with electrocoagulation units that adsorb fine particles and lift them with bubbles for collection. Power comes from solar by day and tide by night, stored in onboard batteries (3–5V). Cleaning relies on anti-fouling coatings and pulse-based detachment. Replaceable adsorption packs and sediment traps enable low-maintenance recovery. Modular structure supports scalable deployment and easy maintenance.

Design process

We started with pollution source mapping and reviewed current methods. Chose filtration + electrocoagulation for dual physical-chemical treatment. Biomimicry inspired flexible hanging structures from coral and seagrass to enhance stability. Designed hybrid solar-tidal energy supply for sustainability. For ecological compatibility, we added whale-repelling acoustic signals, anti-fouling materials, and non-rigid buffers to reduce harm. Rhino + Grasshopper were used for flow simulation and layout planning. Visualization included exploded views, deployment diagrams, and ecological impact scenes.

How it is different

· 3D Cleanup Network: Unlike flat nets or cages, this system extends vertically underwater to intercept microplastics at multiple depths. · Dual Energy System: Uses both solar and tidal power for 24/7 operation without external grid dependency. · Eco-Friendly Engineering: Designed to be whale-safe, anti-fouling, and biodiversity-compatible. · Modular Swarm Deployment: Scalable units form a sensing-cleaning network, supporting future integration with IoT and remote monitoring.

Future plans

We will first test a scaled prototype in freshwater for filtration/electrocoagulation efficiency. Then collaborate with institutes like Qingdao Ocean Research Center for nearshore pilot deployment. Sensors and LoRa/drones will enable remote data tracking. BlueNet will also be part of public exhibitions to promote awareness. Long-term, we aim to enter the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and join global marine restoration initiatives.

Awards

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