Design of a bioreceptive ecological enhancement for a marine infrastructure

A guideline study on habitat development for the European Eel

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

D.P.O. den Hollander Industrial Design Engineering

Contributors

E.W. Thomassen Emerging Materials - IDE (supervisor 1)
E.G. Groutars Mechatronic Design - IDE (supervisor 2)
Faculty
Industrial Design Engineering
Copyright: © 2023 Daan den Hollander
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Published Date

04-12-2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Industrial Design Engineering

Abstract

This thesis describes the development of an innovative product, The EcoModule. The innovation enhances a marine infrastructure called, Reef Enhancing Breakwater (REB), developed by the startup Reefy. This breakwater prevents coastal erosion and it provides a habitat substrate for marine organisms, with the aim of boosting biodiversity. The Reeflocks used for this purpose provide habitat to micro-organisms, however, macro-organisms are also needed to keep an ecosystem running. Therefore, The EcoModule focuses on attracting and providing habitat to macro-organisms.

The habitat described is this document was developed for the endangered European Eel. This document offers a concise step-by-step design process on how to design a habitat for a specific marine organism. In the future, when a different organism is targeted, this thesis can be used as a guideline, with the EcoModule functioning as a basis because of its user-friendly customisability.

First, an introduction of the context is described followed by a case study on the
European Eel. The aspects for habitat development that need to be taken into account are described, after which the final design is presented. The structure of the product is visualised, clearly showing which parts are designed for what and why.

It has been proven that the EcoModule can be attached to the REB and does not
adversely affect its operation. A test in a relevant environment has been conducted to investigate the behaviour of the European Eel across different materials and habitat dimensions.

This has resulted in a proof of concept that will be the first step towards building ecosystems and boosting biodiversity.