Programmable Microbial Foundry: Living Materials Technology

This lecture explores the development of sustainable living materials using a programmable microbial foundry. It discusses the impact of human-made materials on the environment, the fabrication process of biological materials, and the engineering of biological cells to produce materials. The lecture delves into the concept of Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) and their applications, such as structural materials, biohybrid devices, and self-healing materials. It also covers the fabrication of AquaPlastic, the properties of stiff living materials, and the mechanical landscape of living materials. The presentation concludes with a vision for universally biodegradable, flushable, and edible bio-plastics.