The aim of this project is to develop a better understanding of the structure and homeostatic function of termite mounds, with a view to identifying any lessons which can be learned, and ultimately applied, in human construction and habitation.  This, in turn, will lead to a clearer definition of future research directions aimed at delivering some form of homeostasis for human constructions (for example, buildings which are self-regulating and requiring few or no mechanical services systems, and hence much-reduced energy usage).

The project consists of three main objectives:

1. To capture the true 3D geometry of a representative mound of Macrotermes michaelseni.

2. To use the geometry as a basis for modelling the flow, heat and mass transfer in the structure, and hence produce a simulation of these processes in termite mounds, validated by measurement.

3. To review the findings and identify potential lessons for human construction methods and habitats.

Successful completion of these objectives will furnish answers to the questions such as:

1. To what extent do variations in architecture of the tunnel networks correspond to, or facilitate, the different functional regimes of gas exchange?

2. How is the kinetic energy in chaotic and turbulent winds captured, damped and integrated with the steadier releases of energy from metabolism, to provide a reliable service (gas exchange) to the structure?

3. To what extent can the new knowledge to be obtained about these functions be applied to human-built structures and materials?

4. What novel materials and methods of construction (such as those emerging from methods of rapid prototyping) could potentially be developed and ultimately used to construct, service, and maintain human-built structures which are largely self-contained, self-regulating and self-operating, without recourse to extensive use of materials and external services?