Researchers from the University of Rochester and Delft University of Technology created a material that could be the solution to problems in a variety of industries. Living materials are made by housing biological cells within a non-living matrix. In recent years, such materials have become popular because they are robust materials that mimic nature.

The team used 3D printers and a novel bioprinting technique to print algae into living photosynthetic materials that are tough and resilient. The algae-based material has major potential for applications in the energy, medical and fashion sectors.A mini T-shirt demonstrates the photosynthetic living materials created in the lab of the University of Rochester. Source: University of Rochester

To create the new photosynthetic materials, the team started with non-living bacterial cellulose. Cellulose has unique mechanical properties, including flexibility, toughness, strength and the ability to retain strength after use. In production, the bacterial cellulose acts like paper in a printer and the microalgae acts like ink. A 3D printer deposits living algae onto bacterial cellulose and the material is created.

A combination of living and non-living material creates a unique material with the photosynthetic quality of algae and the robustness of bacterial cellulose. The material is tough, resistant, eco-friendly and biodegradable. It is simple and scalable to produce in large quantities. The plant-like nature of the material allows it to use photosynthesis to feed itself over weeks and to regenerate. A small sample can be grown on-site and used to produce more material.

The new material would have a variety of applications, including as artificial leaves. Artificial leaves use sunlight to convert water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and energy. The leaves store energy in a chemical form that can be converted into fuels. Artificial leaves can produce sustainable energy in places where plants do not grow well, like space colonies. Most artificial leaf technology currently in production is produced with toxic chemical methods. However, the new leaves would be made from eco-friendly materials, thereby solving this problem

Another application for the new material is photosynthetic skins, which would be used for skin grafts. The oxygen regenerated would kick start healing or carry out light-activated wound healing.

It would also be useful in fashion. Biogarments made from the algae would address some of the negative environmental effects of the textile industry. These garments could purify the air by removing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. These garments would not need to be washed as often as conventional garments, so they would reduce water usage.

The study was published in Advanced Functional Materials.