Sphira
An Urban Photo-Bioreactor
Sphira is a multi-scalar apparatus urban photobioreactor that focuses on bringing public attention to the portable cultivation and innovative consumption of spirulina. By combining a working urban photobioreactor with the modern gastronomy process of spherification, this study seeks to find the best possible solution to an edible sphere by product.
This fully automated device controlled by an interactive mobile application produces spheres containing high concentrations of live spirulina mixed with organic juices and Cannabis terpenes. By having a closed system with precise nutrient controls our bioreactor attempts to produce spirulina void of flavour whilst maintaining optimum nutrition. This allows us to add various components such as juices and terpenes to a concentrated spirulina solution that can then be formed into edible spheres.
Website and Smartphone Application
Terpene Flavours & Aroma
In order to further hack the flavour of spirulina we have incorporated cannabis terpenes to develop an aromatic complexity. Terpenes are pungent oils that are secreted from various plants, conifers, and cannabis with distinctive flavours ranging from berries, citrus, mint and pine. We have chosen cannabis due to its almost endless variety of terpenes with over 100 unique varieties already found in the plant. Cannabis uses terpenes for adaptive purposes attracting pollinators and deterring predators. For Sphira, it is an addition that excites taste and smell receptors before consuming the nutritious spheres.
SPHIRA is a project of IaaC, Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia Developed at: MAA01 2017-2018 Master in Advanced Architecture, Introductory Studio Students: Mario Alberto Espinoza, Eduardo Chamorro, Timothy Magara, Elliott Santos Faculty :Claudia Pasquero Carmelo Zappulla
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