Coral reefs are one of the most beautiful and remarkable parts of nature. You only need to take a photo to appreciate their beauty. Sadly, due to climate change and urbanisation of the coasts, coral bleaching is becoming increasingly common.

Warmer water temperatures are causing the colourful reefs to disappear, and there is a risk of losing them forever. However, with the help of 3D printing technology, we may be able to find a solution to save them.

Scientists from several Israeli universities have made a groundbreaking discovery. They have found a unique and interesting way to save coral reefs. Their work has been published in the scientific journal "Science of the Total Environment".

The scientists propose a seemingly simple solution - they want to rebuild the Great Barrier Reef using 3D printing technology. However, the process is far more complicated than photographing and printing the reef.

The process involves a combination of 3D scanning algorithms, environmental DNA samples, and a 3D printing algorithm that can accurately examine data from each reef. This allows the printed model to be customised to suit the specific reef environment.

To create a 3D-printed coral reef, a detailed scan of the reef is taken to capture thousands of images of corals. These images are then used to create three-dimensional models to which genetic information from different parts of the coral reef is attached. This helps in recreating the environment in which these organisms live.

The next step is to print the ceramic model of the coral reef using a 3D printer. However, this process is not as simple as it may seem. There are many small and essential factors involved in this process. For instance, the fragments of the Great Barrier Reef have to be matched to their location, and the print itself needs to be made of a porous material to fit perfectly into the damaged coral reef fragments and help rebuild them.

Fortunately, studies have shown that the 3D-printed coral reef attracts fish and various invertebrates. The printout also allows us to track the progress of reef restoration.

Ceramic fragments that could save the Great Barrier Reef will be sent to the Gulf of Aqaba. These fragments will aid in the restoration of damaged ecosystems, however, the best solution is to stop climate change and prevent coral reef bleaching.

Unfortunately, people are not taking action quickly enough. At least scientists are trying to save these beautiful corals in some way. It's reassuring to know that 3D printing can be used for important purposes like this.

Source: PAP, nocamels.com, Science of the Total Environment