By charliejane

Nov 21, 2007 4:00 PM

4,387

more about #beijing
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read more: #architecture, #beijing, #china, #olympics, #physics, #science, #watercube

High-Tech Bubbles Trap Heat In Olympic Swimming Pool

China is rushing to finish the 7,000 square foot "Water Cube" in time to host swimming events in the 2008 Olympics. This giant building's outer cladding, which will keep the pool warm, is based on research by physicists into "how soap bubbles might be arranged in infinite array," says architecture firm Arup. The bubbles themselves are made of a lightweight, transparent Teflon skin called ETFE, which will also make the building a super-efficient greenhouse, says Inhabitat. Images by EyePress/AP.