Long-suffering coral reefs may begin to regrow with a promising new technology.
Scientists believe the clay material will help fragile coral grasp the surface.
The tiles are made by 3D printing with terra cotta clay and firing the tiles at extremely high heat.
(Terra cotta is an ancient form of porous fired-clay pottery.)
Scientists believe both factors will make the tiles an ideal habitat for coral regrowth.
In this way the tiles can be designed to fit with the needs of a specific marine environment.
The tiles cover 430 square feet of ocean floor.
Scientists hope the tiles will help reverse a significant loss of coral reef at Double Island.
Photo: Christian J. Lange/HKU
Photo: Christian J. Lange/HKU
Photo: Christian J. Lange/HKU
Photo: Christian J. Lange/HKU
