7. BioFabricating Materials

Research & Ideation

Biofabricating Materials This week, we explore sustainable innovation through the development of materials made from biological sources. By experimenting with natural ingredients like plant fibers, bio-based polymers, or microbial cultures, we aim to create functional materials with properties such as biodegradability, elasticity, and durability. Biofabrication blends biology with design, offering eco-conscious solutions while unlocking new potentials in material science.

OBJECTIVE:

• Sustainability Biofabrication reduces dependence on petroleum-based, non-biodegradable materials by using renewable resources like plants, fungi, bacteria, and agricultural waste. This supports a circular economy and helps fight environmental pollution.

• Local & Low-Impact Production The methods taught encourage localized manufacturing using available natural materials, which reduces carbon footprints, supports self-sufficiency, and fosters community resilience.

• Innovation in Material Science Through hands-on experimentation, students learn to create entirely new materials with unique properties—such as flexible bacterial cellulose or tough mycelium composites—opening doors to innovation in fashion, architecture, and product design.

• Ethical & Regenerative Design Biofabrication aligns with regenerative design principles—restoring rather than depleting ecosystems. It also encourages ethical sourcing and responsible production practices.

• Empowerment Through Open Knowledge Fabricademy emphasizes open-source learning and sharing. Learners gain not only technical skills but also the mindset to experiment, question industrial norms, and develop environmentally responsible solutions.

Inspiration: Innovators and Projects in Biofabrication

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

1. Bacterial Cellulose Cultivation Process: Fermentation produces lightweight, flexible bacterial cellulose. Application & Impact: Used in fashion, accessories, and even biomedical applications due to its renewability and low-energy production.
2. Mycelium Growth Chambers Process: Mycelium grows in controlled molds under specific humidity and temperature. Application & Impact: Enables biodegradable alternatives in footwear, packaging, and architecture.
3. Bioprinting Process: Layer-by-layer deposition of biological materials like collagen or algae. Application & Impact: Creates biomaterials with custom properties for high-performance textiles and wearables.

Grown Bio’s Mushroom Packaging

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

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.

PROCEDURE

1. Research and Ideation:
2. There are different bioplastic recipes (those made from agar, gelatin, or starch). Determine the accessory size and design.
3. 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.

1. 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.

Bioplastic Materials Overview

Main Ingredients

• Cornstarch (30g / ~3 tablespoons): Serves as the primary base for bioplastic formation.
• Glycerin (15–30 ml / ~1–2 tablespoons): Provides flexibility to the final bioplastic material.
• Water: Used to adjust consistency during the mixing process.

Coloring & Finishing

• Natural Dyes or Pigments:
• Natural colorants can be added for aesthetic or design purposes. Suggested: Brew 3–6 tea bags or 3–6 tablespoons of loose tea for a rich color.

Tools & Accessories

• Mold or Flat Surface: Used to form bioplastic sheets with consistent thickness.

Cutting Tools:

• For shaping and refining bioplastic into desired accessory forms.

Lab Equipment

• Heat Source: Required to heat and combine ingredients into a homogenous mixture.
• Mixing Bowls and Measuring Spoons: Ensure accurate measurement and proper blending of all components.

PROCEDURE

1. Prepare the Tea

• Brew a strong cup of tea by adding 6 spoons of tea to 300 milliliters of water.

• Let it steep for 10–15 minutes to develop a rich, deep color.

• After steeping, strain the tea using a sieve to remove all particles.

2. Combine Ingredients

• In a saucepan, measure and add 30 grams of cornstarch.

• Pour in the 300 milliliters of brewed tea.

• Add 15–30 milliliters of glycerin to enhance the flexibility of the bioplastic.

3. Mix Thoroughly

• Stir the mixture well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the brewed tea.

• Ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps before proceeding to the heating stage.

Heat the Mixture

• Place the saucepan over medium heat.

• Stir the mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking or burning.

• Cook for 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches a gel-like consistency.

• Pour onto the plate:

Prepare the Mold

• I prepared a plate whith which i had to lay the plastic.

Pour the Mixture

• I poured the thickened bioplastic mixture into the plate.

• Smoothed the top to create an even surface.

Let it Set

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

8. Remove and Shape

• Once set, I carefully removed the bioplastic from the mold.

• The parchment paper made removal easy.

• I then used a precision knife to cut it into the desired shape.

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!