CSalt Project 02 · In Development

Coral Lattice

A reef protection system applying wave energy via a floating lattice to support electrochemical mineral accretion technology.

Our vision

Protecting reefs above and rebuilding habitat below

CSalt’s newest initiative addresses coral reef bleaching by combining wave energy, solar power, and mineral accretion technology into a single protective system.

The design centers on floating, expandable tiles equipped with solar panels. These tiles are intended to filter coral reefs from the sun’s harmful rays, a key driver of coral bleaching, while converting the motion of the waves into electrical power.

The science below

Encouraging a limestone foundation

On the ocean floor, an electrochemical cage system uses low-voltage current generated by the system’s wave energy to stimulate mineral accretion.

By running electrical current through a special framework, the system encourages the natural growth of calcium carbonate and other minerals on the structure. The resulting limestone base is intended to provide habitat where coral can establish and grow.

Working across disciplines

Four subteams for one reef system

01

Mechanical

Designing the lattice network of tiles to expand and retract such that they can capture energy from their relative motion in the water.

02

Chemicals & Materials

Researching mineral accretion, developing a lab-scale electrochemical system, and building an electric cage prototype.

03

Business

Evaluating the economic value of coral reef ecosystems and identifying promising locations for future deployment.

04

Community Connections

Interviewing reef-affected communities and coral conservation experts while raising awareness and advocating for renewable energy solutions.

What we plan to achieve

From lab-scale research to a deployable reef platform

Coral Lattice will bring the tile, energy, electrochemistry, and community research streams together into an integrated concept. Our goal is to test the scientific and engineering foundations, learn directly from the people protecting reefs today, and shape a system that can meaningfully support coral resilience.

← Back to the project timeline
  1. Research

    Validate the technical, environmental, and community needs.

  2. Prototype

    Build lab-scale tile, cage, and electrochemical systems.

  3. Integrate

    Connect wave and solar generation to mineral accretion.

  4. Evaluate

    Assess performance and identify responsible deployment pathways.