7. BioFabricating Materials

Research & Ideation

Inspiration: Innovators and Projects in Biofabrication

Inspiration:

Objective:

To explore artists, researchers, and companies pioneering biofabricated materials, with a focus on their applications in sustainable design, fashion, and material science.

Biofabricated Textiles and Biomaterials

Suzanne Lee

Known for: Pioneering biofabricated leather using kombucha-based cellulose. Insight: Suzanne Lee's groundbreaking work involves creating sustainable, biodegradable leather by fermenting bacterial cellulose. This alternative to traditional leather production reduces environmental impact by removing the need for animal products and chemical tanning. Picture reference: Suzanne’s kombucha leather samples.

MycoWorks

Known for: Developing mycelium-based materials. Insight: MycoWorks transforms mycelium, the root structure of fungi, into durable, leather-like materials. This process allows for customizable, eco-friendly textiles, offering a renewable alternative to synthetic and animal-based materials in fashion and design.

Bacterial Cellulose Cultivation

Bacterial cellulose is grown through fermentation, creating a flexible, lightweight material. This biofabrication process is typically low-energy and uses renewable ingredients, making it ideal for sustainable fashion and accessory design. Picture reference: Cellulose culture during the fermentation process.

Mycelium Growth Chambers

Mycelium grows within molds or chambers, where it can be shaped into desired structures. By altering environmental factors like humidity and temperature, designers can control the properties of the final mycelium material for specific applications. Picture reference: Mycelium growing in a mold.

Bioprinting

Bioprinting enables the layering of biological materials, such as collagen or algae, to create textiles or wearable structures. This technique opens possibilities for customizable, bio-based products that match design requirements without the limitations of traditional textile manufacturing. Picture reference: 3D bioprinter creating biomaterial samples.

Grown Bio’s Mushroom Packaging

Project Overview: Utilizing mycelium to create biodegradable packaging, Grown Bio demonstrates biofabrication’s potential to replace synthetic packaging materials. The material decomposes naturally, aligning with circular economy goals. Picture reference: Grown Bio’s mushroom-based packaging.

AlgiKnit

Project Overview: AlgiKnit develops yarn from kelp-based biopolymers, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional fibers. This project shows biofabrication’s potential in textile production, with yarn that biodegrades without microplastic pollution. Picture reference: AlgiKnit yarn in natural dyes.

CREATION OF BIODEGRADABLE FASHION ACCESSORY:

Working with bio-based materials that can replace plastics or synthetic leathers in fashion. Here’s an outline of the project and a materials list to request.

Comparative Analysis & Future Perspectives

Comparing Biofabrication Techniques:

Bacterial Cellulose vs. Mycelium: Bacterial cellulose is flexible and lightweight, ideal for accessories and textiles, whereas mycelium is durable and moldable, suitable for rigid applications like packaging and furniture.

Bioprinting vs. Traditional Methods:

Bioprinting allows for tailored biomaterials, reducing waste and enhancing precision compared to traditional fabrication techniques.

Challenges & Limitations:

Scalability:

While promising, large-scale production of biofabricated materials remains a challenge due to cost and processing time.

Durability & Consumer Adoption:

Some biomaterials may lack the longevity of conventional materials, and market acceptance is still growing.

Future Innovations & Potential:

Integration in Circular Economy: Advancements in biofabrication can lead to closed-loop systems, where materials regenerate and decompose naturally. Collaborations Between Industries: Partnerships between technology companies, fashion brands, and scientific researchers can accelerate material adoption and commercialization.

Final Thoughts

Biofabrication is reshaping material science, offering alternatives that align with sustainability and circular economy principles. Researchers and companies continue to push boundaries, proving that innovations in bacterial cellulose, mycelium, and biopolymers can revolutionize industries. With further technological advancements, biofabrication has the potential to define the future of sustainable design and production.

Project: Biodegradable Fashion Accessory

Create a small, sustainable fashion accessory using bioplastic materials that are fully biodegradable. This project focuses on experimenting with recipes for creating bioplastics and discovering their potential for replacing synthetic materials.

Project Steps

1. Research and Ideation: StuDy different bioplastic recipes (those made from agar, gelatin, or starch). Determine the accessory size and design (e.g., wallet, cardholder, or pouch).
2. Material Experimentation: Experiment with the bioplastic recipe, focusing on texture, thickness, and durability to achieve a leather-like or plastic quality. Consider color dyes made from natural pigments to add aesthetic value.
3. Accessory Fabrication: Mold or cut the bioplastic sheet into your accessory’s shape. Add components like closures or fasteners using biodegradable or recyclable materials. Test durability and flexibility, noting any areas for improvement.

Materials List

1. Main Bioplastic Ingredients  cornstarch: Core ingredients for bioplastic creation.  Glycerin: Adds flexibility to the bioplastic.  Water: Used to mix with the bioplastic base for proper consistency.
2. Coloring and Finishing  Natural Dyes or Pigments: Coffee
3. Tools and Accessories  Mold or flat surface: For creating even sheets of bioplastic.  Cutting Tools: Precision knives to shape the bioplastic into your desired accessory form.
4. Lab Equipment  Heat Source: stove to heat ingredients and create the bioplastic mixture.  Mixing Bowls and Measuring Spoons

Ingredients • Cornstarch: 30 grams (approximately 3 tablespoons) • Brew the tea using 3-6 tea bags or 3-6 tablespoons of loose tea for a strong color. • Glycerin: 15-30 milliliters (approximately 1-2 tablespoons) • Water: (optional, for adjusting consistency)

PROCEDURE

• Prepare the Tea: • First, I brewed a strong cup of tea by adding 6 spoons tea to 300 milliliters of water. I let it steep for about 10-15 minutes to ensure a rich color. • After steeping, I removed the tea particles through the sieve. • Combine Ingredients: • In a saucepan, I measured and added 30 grams of cornstarch. • I then poured in the 300 milliliters of brewed tea. • To add flexibility to the bioplastic, I included 15-30 milliliters of glycerin. • Mix Thoroughly: • I stirred the mixture until the cornstarch fully dissolved in the brewed tea, ensuring no lumps were left.

• Heat the Mixture: • I placed the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning. • I cooked it for about 10-15 minutes until it thickened and developed a gel-like consistency.

• Pour into Molds:

• I prepared a mold.

• I poured the thickened bioplastic mixture into the mold and smoothed the top for an even surface.

• Let it Set:

• I allowed the bioplastic to cool and set by Leaving it at room temperature .

• Remove and Shape:

• Once the bioplastic was set, I carefully lifted it out of the mold. The parchment paper made this step simple.

• Using scissors or a precision knife, I cut the bioplastic into the desired shapes needed for the accessory.

Project Outcome

By the end of this week, had a prototype accessory showcasing biofabricated materials. This will be a useful exploration of the possibilities of bioplastics in sustainable fashion design and could lead to more complex projects in biofabrication!