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7. BioFabricating Materials

Research

ioconcret The exploration of biofabricated materials opens new possibilities for creating sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics. Gelatin bioplastic is a protein-based material made from natural ingredients, which can be formed into flexible films, sheets, or coatings. Unlike petroleum-based plastics, this material is renewable, biodegradable, and can be produced using low-energy processes.

In this experiment, I worked with gelatin, glycerin, water, and natural red food dye to produce a thin bioplastic film. The goal was to study the material behavior, flexibility, transparency, and potential design applications within fashion and craft contexts.

The goal of biofabricating materials is to create environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and renewable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, synthetic fibers, and animal-derived leather. These innovations are not only reshaping material science but also redefining the future of fashion, architecture, medicine, and design.

References & Inspiration

https://peerj.com/articles/13062/

  • Image reference

Overview material research outcomes

This experiment focuses on:

  1. Gelatin Bioplastic Film

  2. Flexible natural-based sheet material

  3. Colored with red food dye

  4. Tested in different thicknesses

Key observed material qualities:

  1. Flexible when glycerin is added

  2. Becomes stiffer as it dries longer

  3. Semi-transparent surface

  4. Slight glossy finish

  5. Sensitive to humidity and water

Tools & Materials

Tools

  1. Small pot

  2. Spoon / whisk

  3. Measuring spoons

  4. Flat tray, glass plate, or silicone mat

Materials

  1. Gelatin powder

  2. Water

  3. Glycerin (plasticizer)

  4. Yellow food color (natural dye)

Process and workflow

My first step was to measure the ingredients and mix the gelatin powder with water in a small pot. I gently heated the mixture on low heat while stirring continuously until the gelatin dissolved completely. I was careful not to boil the mixture.

After that, I added glycerin to make the film more flexible and mixed again. I then added yellow food color to dye the material.

I poured the liquid mixture onto a flat tray and spread it evenly to form a thin layer. The film was left to cool and dry for several hours. Once fully dry, I carefully peeled off the sheet to obtain a thin gelatin bioplastic film.

Ingredients & Recipes

Ingredients

  1. 1–2 tablespoons gelatin powder

  2. 3–4 tablespoons water

  3. 1 teaspoon glycerin

  4. A 5 grams red food color

Tools

  1. Pot

  2. Spoon

  3. Flat tray

Recipe Steps

# step - 1 I Mix gelatin powder and water in a pot.

step - 2

I Heat gently and stir until fully dissolved.

step - 3

I Add glycerin and i mix well.

step - 4

I Add Red food color dye.

last

i Pour onto a flat tray in an even layer.

i Leave to dry overnight.

last is to Peel off the sheet once dry.

Documenting and comparing experiments

TEST SERIE BIO-PLASTIC
Material pic Material name polymer plastifier dye note
Gelatin Film A Gelatin Glycerin red food color Thin layer, more transparen
Gelatin Film B Gelatin Glycerin red food color Thicker layer, stronger color
RESULTS