Abertay University use 3D printer to recreate soil

SCIENTISTS at Abertay University have used a 3D printer to bring to life the complex inner workings of soil.

Fungi was injected into 3D printed soil by Abertay University researchers to track how organisms moved within the soil. Picture: Abertay University

Led by Professor Wilfred Otten, researchers inserted fungi into the printed soil to observe how the fungi move around within the space.

Commenting on the research, Prof Otten said: “Soil is alive, with a handful of soil containing billions of microscopic organisms. Soil is much more than the dirt that sticks under our shoes or holds up our plants – it is a jungle of living organisms that break down organic matter to make the nutrients available for plant roots.”