A Scientist from Spain Seeks to Energize Chemistry – One Lego Piece at a Time
A scientist hailing from Spain aims to ignite a fresh interest in chemistry by converting one of the essential tools of science—the periodic table—into an animated and interactive Lego set. Enrique Barrajón, a retired oncologist residing in Alicante, Spain, has put forth his concept of the “Periodic Tower of Elements” on the LEGO Ideas platform, where public votes can aid in making fan designs into official Lego products.
An Elegant Homage to Scientific Framework
Instead of sticking to the conventional flat, grid-like periodic table commonly seen in chemistry classes, Barrajón’s creation draws inspiration from Heinrich Baumhauer’s lesser-known 3D adaptation, formulated in 1870. The outcome is a twisting tower that not only adheres to atomic numbers from top to bottom but also arranges elemental groups vertically, maintaining both periodicity and the unique organizational charm of the table.
The ensemble comprises 237 Lego pieces and features color-coded elements that represent their classifications—like metals, nonmetals, noble gases, and metalloids—for straightforward educational reference. This tangible depiction enables both students and enthusiasts to delve into the enigmas of atomic structure in an enjoyable, hands-on manner.
A Concept That Fuses Play with Learning
Barrajón has presented the Periodic Tower as part of the LEGO Ideas initiative, a crowdsourcing platform where fans can propose their designs. Should a submission gather 10,000 supporters, the Lego Group reviews the concept for possible release.
“In my retirement, I have reconnected with my passion for science and games,” Barrajón shares. “I aspire for this model to spark curiosity regarding atomic structure and the connections between elements.”
If greenlit, Barrajón’s vision would join a burgeoning list of science-themed Lego offerings, such as the “Research Institute,” which spotlights women scientists—a chemist, paleontologist, and astronomer—encouraging STEM education through play.
Global Periodic Inspiration
Barrajón’s creative interpretation of the periodic table also contributes to the worldwide array of imaginative takes on this chemical pillar. In Australia, Edith Cowan University boasts the largest periodic table globally, spanning a vast public exhibit. Conversely, the University of Nottingham in the UK treasures what is thought to be the smallest version—a nanoscale wonder.
In the middle, other inventive interpretations feature a spiral table crafted from precious metals and even a diamond, displayed at St. Catherine’s College in the University of Cambridge—a tribute to the sophistication and lasting allure of chemistry.
Cultivating Curiosity from the Ground Up
Barrajón’s Periodic Tower of Elements taps into the universal draw of Lego, merging science and imagination into an attractive model fit for all ages. As public enthusiasm for STEM education burgeons, such projects illustrate how impactful design and play can kindle fascination in scientific themes that might otherwise appear abstract or daunting.
For those keen to back the idea, the project remains active on the LEGO Ideas platform. As it progresses towards the necessary vote count, science aficionados and Lego enthusiasts can unite behind a vision that constructs not only structures—but curiosity and knowledge, one brick at a time.