The Purgatory

Located in Nagasaki, The Purgatory is a groundbreaking project designed to remediate nuclear-contaminated areas using the unique capabilities of Deinococcus radiodurans bacteria, known for their unparalleled resistance to radiation. This self-sustaining facility aims to mitigate the long-term effects of nuclear radiation on ecosystems and human health by deploying bacteria to neutralize radioactive particles in both soil and air.

Nagasaki’s historical significance as a city devastated by nuclear warfare adds a powerful context to the project, transforming the location from a symbol of destruction into one of recovery and innovation. The Purgatory primarily operates through advanced robotics, with automated systems handling the core processes, while human oversight and research direct the strategy. Humans will only enter six months after its operation begins, allowing time for full interior purification from radiation.

Serving as a prototype, The Purgatory’s adaptable design and scalable technology make it a versatile solution for global nuclear remediation. Its dual approach addresses both soil and air contamination, using drones to deploy bacteria for air remediation and the bacteria swarming for soil remediation. Deinococcus radiodurans’ ability to repair DNA damage and break down radioactive particles makes it essential to the project.

The facility’s design emphasizes sustainability, using durable, corrosion-resistant steel for drone protection and lightweight, heat-resistant composites to optimize bacterial cultivation. High-strength, low-carbon concrete offers both radiation shielding and structural support, reducing the facility’s carbon footprint. These material choices ensure The Purgatory is both environmentally friendly and effective in long-term operations, offering a replicable model for global nuclear remediation efforts.