DIXSON LAB

Researchers at the University of Delaware Faculty of Science with her team, replicated and fabricated 3D printed corals with the aim of helping to replenish a reef in Fiji and protect local marine life. Two species of scleractinian coral skeletons, Acropora formosa and Pocillopora damicornis, were used as models to create 3D printed corals. Morphologically different species were chosen to determine if observed C. viridis behavior patterns were in response to the 3D printed filaments or visual cues of the structure. Both species significantly contribute to Pacific reef matrices, playing important roles in benthic communities and serving as protective habitats for C. viridis.

It was explored the efficacy of using 3D printed models in coral reef behavioral research, an area of study where this form of additive manufacturing could offer significant advantages.

Local: Fiji
Year: 2019
AM Technology: Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
Material: Polylactic Acid (PLA)

Link of the original project