Open Compute Wants To Make Biodegradable Servers

1sockchuck writes "The Open Compute Project has challenged students at Purdue University to develop a biodegradable server chassis. Although the steel used in most server chassis can be recycled, the OCP says it wants to "explore designs that retain the needed resiliency but push the boundaries of sustainability," even allowing a chassis to be composted. The project aligns with Facebook's goal of separating the technology refresh cycle for CPUs and other components from the surrounding chassis and racks. The Purdue students will tackle this issue next semester, but Slashdot readers can brainstorm the issue now. Is a biodegradable server chassis viable? If so, can it be affordable?"

Comments

That's all well and good

[viperidaenz]

But the steel in the chassis is probably the most environmentally friendly part of a server.

Re:That's all well and good

[Anonymous Coward]

This. Isn't there no limit to the number of times steel can be recycled? Also, chassis shouldn't be replaced that often, no? Why are we wasting effort on the longest lasting, most sustainable portion of the computer?

Re:That's all well and good

[jdray]

Because someone had a "brilliant" marketing idea, no concept of the technical viability, and no interest in doing proper research. Instead, they get something up on Slashdot and let us tell them whether it's a good idea or not.