H 2G R O W

The H2grOw modular living wall system allow plants to thrive in an urban semi-arid climate. This system, which reduces the need for irrigation by capturing water, allows for semi-arid cities like Denver to reap the benefits of green walls such as temperature reduction, noise pollution mitigation, and cleaner air. The design of the H2grOw module is inspired by the namib desert beetle’s ability to capture water from it’s only water source, the morning fog. Water droplets from the fog collect on small bumps on the beetle’s backside, and when the water droplets reach a certain size they fall down its back and are channeled directly toward its mouth1,2. The H2grOw module has the same sloped angle and small bumps as the beetle that will attract and collect water from the air. To further reduce the need for irrigation of H2grOw also, similar to the TiO2 molecule, forms a photocatalytic reaction when exposed to uv-rays from the sun 3 . This reaction converts pollutants like benzene from car exhaust into less harmful molecules like CO2 and H2O. These products can be captured by H2grOw. To direct water to the plant roots H2grOw will mimic the hydrophobic properties of the lotus plant. The hydrophobic lotus leaf efficiently directs 4 The structure of H2grOw is Poraver®, a lightweight aggregate made of recycled glass bottles that is completely recyclable, LEED compliant, sound absorbing, and maintains the same structural integrity as concrete. This will be added into concrete to create a lightweight module. Students: Catharine McCord and Carly Gelatt