ReefNexus

What it does

ReefNexus is an innovative modular artificial reef system that integrates geometric tessellation principles. This novel design concept enables sustainable production, scalable assembly, transport efficiency, habitat creation, and marine regeneration.

Your inspiration

Coral reefs are nowadays under threat due to global climate changes and human activities, arousing awareness in deploying artificial reefs to promote marine restoration. However, challenges remain in their design. We conducted a field study through interviewing marine scientists, while observing existing artificial reef structures to define the design requirements. And the Geometric Mosaic patterns provide us with crucial design inspirations because of its ingenious spatial division and tight interlocking features.

How it works

ReefNexus adopts a full-process ecological engineering method: 1.In the land stage, we employed digital mold design and fabric framework technology. The specific process is: mold prototype, fabricated via fabric framework,apply glue, coating resin, assemble and fix the mold, prepare concrete, add coral aggregates, pour concrete, demold. 2.During the transportation stage, the modules can be disassembled and stacks up and down, in combination with a buoyancy transport frame. 3.When Submarine deployment， at least 3 to 6 modules form an anti-current unit. The bionic connection structure can adapt to different water depths, 4. In ecological evolution process, ReefNexus takes advantage of the coral aggregate concrete to form biofilms, complete calcification, establish self-sustaining ecosystems, and increase biodiversity.

Design process

To achieve modular design, we draw inspiration from geometric tessellation.Triangle is given priority due to its ability to anchor securely on uneven seabed through three vertices. We cut the corners into flat surfaces, which enables them to be perfectly spliced. To mitigate ocean lateral forces and enhance stability, We incorporated vaults structure with excellent fluid mechanics performance and introduced a bionic Candela shell structure. Finally, we identified multiple modular assembly strategies suitable for different environments. To accurately design and determine dimension parameters, we use Grasshopper plugin: (1) computational design, (2) mechanical simulation and optimization. Four important parameters—h（vaults height), H(total height), D(bottom triangle length), and d(top triangle length) that are most applicable to engineering were determined. To achieve large-scale production, We choose fabric framework as fabrication method, due to its adaptability and reusability. Meanwhile, we add coral aggregate into normal concrete and conduct material optimization experiments to make our material more sustainable and regenerative while improving its performance and aesthetic.

How it is different

1. Geometrically driven dynamic stability system: The triangular base and candela shell structure curved surface design achieve dual stability: vaults disperses the impact force ; cutting angular planes forms interlocking topological networks. 2. Biomaterials systems: Develop coral aggregate concrete method, benefits both ecology and strength. The surface enhances the biological attachment rate, while the interior strengthens the compressive resistance, solving the strength or compatibility issues of traditional materials. 3. Distributed manufacturing paradigm: The fabric framework technology supports mobile production. The energy consumption is only 17% of that of 3D printing. It is easy to assemble and the cost is much lower than traditional ship hoisting. 4.Topological adaptive system: Parametric design enables dynamic expansion. The h/H/d/D four-variable control adapt to different environments, which is superior to fixed-size reef.

Future plans

1. Carry out intelligent and digital upgrades: Establish virtual reef models, simulate different marine environments, and provide customized solutions. 2. Deepen materials science and sustainability: Innovate in biomaterials, explore more possibilities of concrete composite materials. Embedding microorganisms or microcapsule technology enables the reef automatically repair when damaged. 3. Establish a community platform: Set up an open design library to allow people to customize modules and promote manufacturing.

Awards

Red Dot Design Award 2025