Defending Fisheries and Rural Communities: Innovative 3D-Printed Living Seawalls

This project aligns with USDA SBIR/STTR Phase I Program, Research Priority 8.6.C on reducing rural vulnerabilities (excluding terrorism) under Research Topic 8.6 on Rural and Community Development. It supports the USDA 2023-2026 Science and Research Strategy goals: Accelerating Innovative Technologies & Practices, Driving Solutions, and Cultivating Resilient Ecosystems. The project aims to address the escalating challenges faced by rural fishery communities, particularly the vulnerabilities posed by degrading water quality, rising sea levels, and increased storm surges. Traditional coastal protection methods often degrade vital ecosystems such as wetlands and mangroves, while also requiring costly and frequent repairs. This proposal seeks to develop a library of 3D-printed Living Seawallsâ„¢, which mimic natural coastal habitats (e.g., coral reefs, mangroves, oyster reefs, and seagrass meadows), to enhance coastal defenses while restoring marine ecosystems.Objectives include:1: Design, Fabricate, and Prototype 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Seagrass Meadows, and Oyster Reefs2: Optimize 3D-Printed Habitat Structures for Specific Coastal Conditions and Impact AssessmentThe anticipated results include improved coastal resilience, increased fishery sustainability, and reduced environmental impact through the use of eco-friendly concretes. The project offers a significant commercial application by creating scalable, cost- effective seawalls that not only protect rural communities from risks but also support local fisheries and ecosystems.