3D Printed Engineered Living Materials for High Performance Bioplastics

Engineered living materials (ELMs) are a class of materials that integrate genetically modified microorganisms within a polymer network, yielding versatile functional objects. Here, we introduce ELMs comprising cells with inducible genes that enable external control of mechanical stiffness of the matrix and the degradation time point. Specifically, the induced metabolite production can signficantly impact the encapsulating polymer matrices. Our ELMs can be 3D printed via Direct Ink Write extrusion or light-based vat photopolymerization to fabricate functional objects. The innovative features of our approach are the genetic programming of material properties and their temporal control using inducible genes. The advanced bio-manufacturing and the bio-degradability of the ELM bioplastics addresses the need for sustainable production methods with end-of-use considerations for future plastic materials.