Supporting Artecology’s Eco-Engineering with Durable, Corrosion-Resistant Magnets

Our Client

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Artecology is the innovative research and development division of Arc Biodiversity & Climate, based in Sandown Bay within the Isle of Wight UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Specialising in eco-engineering, Artecology focuses on developing bio-receptive products that enhance biodiversity in urban, marine, freshwater, and land-based environments.

Artecology’s design innovation team works closely with research partners and universities to prototype and test new products that integrate nature-based solutions into built infrastructure. Current projects include the development of artificial soft sediment habitats and coral reef restoration products, aimed at delivering measurable Biodiversity Net Gain.

How Goudsmit UK Helped

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Artecology’s latest project required an innovative method to fix their constructed wildlife habitat units securely to metal infrastructure, without invasive installation methods. They sought a magnetic solution that would be durable, reliable, and suitable for estuarine environments.Recognising Goudsmit UK’s technical expertise, Artecology engaged us to assist with the design and specification of bespoke magnetic fixings:

• Collaborative Design Consultation: Goudsmit UK’s engineering team worked closely with Artecology to fully understand the project requirements, particularly the unique challenges posed by the marine estuary environment.

• Tailored Magnet Specification: We provided expert advice on the appropriate magnet type, strength, and protective coating to ensure long-term performance and resistance to environmental factors.

• Rigorous Quality Control: Each magnet was thoroughly tested and quality checked prior to dispatch, ensuring the fixings met the exacting standards required by Artecology’s team.

This collaboration enabled Artecology to trial a first-of-its-kind magnetic fixing system for estuarine wildlife habitat units, eliminating the need for permanent mechanical fixings and offering greater flexibility for installation on various urban structures.

“Artecology engaged with Goudsmit UK for assistance with the project, Goudsmit UK were the desirable option to engage due to their technical expertise in the science and technology of magnets.”

-Nigel George, Director

The Working Relationship

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Over the coming weeks the magnets and constructed habitat units will be deployed in the Medina Estuary in the town of Newport, in the Isle of Wright UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Although still in its early stages, Goudsmit UK are a critical part of this cutting-edge ecological engineering research and development which is set to revolutionise Eco engineering. 

If the magnetic fixing system trial proves successful, it’s likely to transform the ecological engineering sector in terms of how and where some types of constructed habitat unit are made and installed in the future. 

The next stage in the project is to test and hopefully prove the concept. If successful, Artecology will be looking for other ways to implement magnetic fixings in their work and continue their work with Goudsmit UK. 

As of the 7th June 2022, 7 weeks after installation, the artificial intertidal wildlife habitat unit hasn’t budged a single millimetre. The unit was held in place successfully with 1.2T super magnets with a combined pull of 130kg.