INFROSONIC
Abhinav Chaudhary (MArch)
Miguel Escallon (MArch)
Neil Deep Singh Grewal (MArch)
2017 – 2018
In 2015, an earthquake of 7.8 magnitude displaced over 6.6 million in Kathmandu, Nepal. Three years later, the country struggles to rebuild its capital. The aim of this study was to investigate a construction system, produced from locally sourced materials, that can aggregate and deploy as self-built, habitable infrastructure. The study focused on the relationships between material resonance, earthquake-resistant structures, and fabrication processes. An agent-based form-finding algorithm was developed using knowledge acquired through physical prototyping of mycelium-based composites to generate complex geometries that increase earthquake resistance, optimise material usage, and enhance spatial occupation. The results show compelling evidence for a construction methodology to design and construct a 3-4-storey building. The scope of work contributes to advancements in bioengineering, confirming easy-to-grow, light-weight mycelium composites as viable structural materials for construction.