Science fiction has explored multiple paths to use microorganisms in favor of humanity.While it is true that in most occasions projected relationships derive in parasitic experiences, the possibilities are so attractive that they should not be ruled out.At least this must be if the research of the University of Rochester and the University of Delft is observed that has been able to manufacture fabrics with a living base with greater resistance and ability to grow that can be applied in the near future even in inhospitable places forThe human being.
Scientists have used simple mechanisms and within reach of almost anyone, although with an approach to the dream future.With a 3D printer and an ecological material they have developed a fabric that is framed within the dreams of the human being.To begin with, it is about using a living material, since the base are microalgae that injects a bacterial material to develop photosynthesis.By simplifying, it is as if the printer ink was the energy that revives algae to grow.
The advantages of a tissue made of microalgae
The advantages of this process are multiple.To begin with, they are sustainable and respectful of the environment because of their biodegradable character and do not need to wash themselves as often as conventional garments.But they also have the surprising ability to regenerate since these are living materials and this allows the fabric to be re -recovered thanks to the algae growth process when re -placeing a piece of material or when generating more of it.
Another surprising benefit is its added value in case of wanting to colonize other planets.Upon receiving sunlight, this tissue can convert water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and energy, like any vegetable with photosynthesis.This energy released in the form of chemicals can be used for fuel, something very useful for autonomy outside the planet Earth."We are manufacturing a material that is only focused on sustainable energy production. Our materials are a bit 'the best parts of plants', without the need to produce other parts of the plants such as seeds and roots, which need to spend resourcesBut they do not produce energy, "explains Anne S. Meyer, Professor of Biology at the University of Rochester in the presentation of the results.
Third, the fabrics meet the needs of any customer in a clothing store."The material is robust enough to be used in real life," says Srkkanth Balasubramanian, principal author of the study published in the scientific journal Advanced Functional Materials.On the other hand, that it is a strong material does not mean that it is not flexible.Thanks to the bacterial cellulose injected into algae, flexibility and resistance are maintained that even when the tissue is rolled, squeezed or forced retains its properties as any other similar usually used in the clothes.
The last effect also enters the matter of science fiction: skin grafts that cure wounds."The generated oxygen could help to start cureing a damaged area or could help continue with a healing activated by light," says Meyer.
This content is imported from YouTube. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.In view of the benefits, one can think that in the future everyone could dress with microalgae clothes and that this fashion could even reach astronauts."Our living materials are promising because they can survive for several days without access to water or nutrients, and the material itself can be used as a seed to cultivate new living materials," recalls Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam, a professor of nanoscience at the University of Delftthat has collaborated with the project."This opens the door to applications in remote areas, even in space, where the material can be sown in situ," she points out about a possibility that could be part of the plot axis of 'The Martian'.
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