From Ancient Oceans to Future Myths: Microbiocene Sculpture at Artis Zoo

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We’re excited to share an update about one of our first projects, printed back in 2018 - Microbiocene: Ancient Ooze to Future Myths. It’s a unique 3D-printed monument we helped bring to life for @baumleahy , now you can find it at @artis.amsterdam in Amsterdam! This project celebrates the «Microbiocene,» a speculative era centered around the incredible impact of microbes on our world, both in the past and future.

The monument, designed by Baum & Leahy in collaboration with the NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research , merges ancient marine microbiology with cutting-edge 3D printing. The sculpture is crafted with sea sediment, referencing deep-ocean microfossils that reveal ancient environmental conditions. The intricate, bio-inspired shapes and «microglyph» language on the sculpture creates a bridge between the ancient world and speculative futures, inviting us to reflect on humanity’s relationship with the microbial ecosystems that sustain us.

We are glad to see that one of our early 3D printed projects continues to spark conversation and finds a new home!

Photos are made by @benhoudijk

#Vertico #Parametricdesign #3DCP #Research #DigitalManufacturing #3DConcretePrinting #parametricarchitecture #parametricart #artist

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Do I need an HMI for printing with Accelerated printhead?

Yes, an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) guides you through the entire 3D printing process with 2-component materials—from preparation to printing and cleaning. It provides real-time data from the printhead’s sensors, giving you full control over the printing process by monitoring key parameters such as accelerant pressure, material flow, etc.

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What is the biggest advantage of the Accelerator Printhead compared to a standard one?

The Accelerator Printhead unlocks unparalleled design freedom, allowing for large overhangs, intricate patterns, and complex geometries—perfect for architecture and custom design. It also enables rapid curing, reducing production time while maintaining high precision and structural integrity.

What materials can be used with the Accelerator Printhead?

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What software does Vertico provide, and is it included with the machine?

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