ORGANIC CONCRETE
by Jill Fehrenbacher, 09/21/05
Lisbon based e-studio has recently developed an organic concrete. The Beto Organico has a permeable surface which allows plants to grow out of it. This new material exploits concrete?s capacity to trap water and retain humidity, so the substance can nourish plants even during a dry spell. The organic concrete makes it possible to create permeable living surfaces, allowing architects and urban designers to incorporate a bit of greenery directly into their designs.
Interesting idea – two questions though – (1) would the permeability lead to premature degredation and failure in cold climates? i.e.: water getting in there, freezing, and cracking the concrete? (2) Plants and their roots have a habit of breaking up whatever they’re planted in – i.e.: breaking down rocks and so on – is this a concern here?