Wave-tank testing of CCell Hyperboloid Reef

Hyperboloid Reefs

Product

Hyperboloid Reefs

Rooted in Nature for Long-Term Impact

CCell’s hyperboloid reefs feature a superior strength-to-weight ratio and intricate internal geometry, combining coastal protection with habitat creation.

Each reef module dissipates wave energy through wave breaking and internal turbulence, reducing coastal erosion even during severe storms and hurricanes. Adjustable in height, profile, and material composition, they adapt seamlessly to diverse coastal environments.

Inspired by natural forms and enhanced through the growth of bivalves and corals, our hyperboloid reefs offer a regenerative, nature-driven alternative to conventional coastal protection.

Hyperboloid Reef on the shore.
CCell's hyperboloid reef prior to installation.
Applications
  • Coastal protection
  • Sediment recovery
  • Sediment stabalisation
  • Extreme weather disturbance mitigation
  • Habitat restoration
  • Supporting piers and jetties
  • Nearshore research hub
  • Marine data collection
Colour image of reef deflections under load.
Structural Analysis of Hyperboloid reef under extreme loads.
Rock grown around steel rebar.
Rock layer grown using Mineral Accretion Technology ('MAT').
Key Features

Material Versitility

Our hyperboloid reef modules demonstrate exceptional material versatility. They can be fabricated using various combinations — or exclusively from — any of the following core materials, carefully selected to suit local environmental conditions:

  • Steel
  • Galvanised Steel
  • Glass composites
  • Bamboo
  • Cori (coconut)

Efficient Design

At the core of our approach lies a commitment to material efficiency and long-term durability, guided by the principles of a circular economy. Our manufacturing and installation processes reflect our dedication to ethical practices and streamlined implementation.

Modular Units
  • Flat-packed for efficient transport
  • Interlocking bars and frame rings for secure assembly
  • Non-disruptive, rapid on-site installation
Mineral Accretion Technology
  • Accelerated growth of reef-building organisms (oysters, mussels, corals)
  • Enhances wave attenuation
  • Supports marine habitat development

Digital Connectivity

Precise control of mineral accretion to optimise rock or marine life across the life of the structure. N.B. Our reef units can be electrified—either temporarily or for extended periods. This connectivity enables remote monitoring of the reefs, with:

Plug-n-Play Sensors
  • Waves and currents alerts
  • Video and infrared cameras
  • Abiotic Data (temperature, pH, etc)
Research Potential
  • Marine Bioacoustics
  • Enhancing Reef Ecology
  • Pollutant and chemical detection
Biomimicry

Boiler Reefs

In the natural world, 'boiler' formations, prominently observed in Bermuda's holocene algal cup reefs, display hyperbolic shapes with diameters ranging from 1 to 2 meters.

Inspired by these natural structues, CCell hyperboloid reef structures are a harmonious fusion of sustainable engineering design and the ingenious principles found in healthy coastal ecosystems.

Much like CCell reefs, these microatolls gain strength through the settlement of biogenic materials and serve as habitats for a diverse range of marine life.

Boiler reefs in Bermuda. Photo by: Roy Burch
Boiler reefs in Bermuda. Photo by: Roy Burch
Ariel view of CCell Reefs at Telchac
Microatolls breaking waves in Tonga.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Property Units HBS6 HBS4 HBA2
Water Depth* m 6 4 2
Unit Height** m 5.5 3.5 1.5
Unit Width m 9.1 5.8 5.3
Initial Unit Weight kg 3600 800 150
Material Steel + Bamboo Steel + Bamboo Steel + Bamboo
MAT Yes Yes Yes
Illustration
HBS6
HBS4
HBA2
Ideal in / for Intermediate water depths, Large wave and storm climates, habit restoration. Shallow water depth, Large waves and storm conditions, habit restoration. Mild weather, habit restoration
*Recommended freeboard ranges from -0.5m (below the surface) to 1m (protrusion above water line) according to environmental suitability.
**Height, width, and weight values are based on a typical example and may vary depending on local environmental conditions, available materials, and the surrounding marine habitat.
More Information

Hyperboloid Reefs - Product Sheet

Why Hyperboloid Reefs?

Case Study - CCell Reef at Telchac Puerto, Yucatan, Mexico

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