Biomaterial matrix with tunable hygroscopic properties
This technology is a nanomaterial particle-filament composite material and method to generate responsive materials to changes in humidity and water content.
Unmet Need: Responsive large-scale materials based on nanomaterials
Nanoparticles have unique optical, electronic, and mechanical properties which are rarely found in large-scale materials. Due to granular nature of nanoparticles, synthesizing large-scale materials derived from nanomaterials remains challenging.
The Technology: Biomaterial composite matrix responsive to changes in humidity and water content
This technology integrates hygroscopic bacterial spores into a matrix of stiff filaments. Several species of bacterial spores are genetically engineered to optimize their hydroscopic and hygroscopic properties before they are implemented in a modifiable cellulose nanofiber. This material can generate strains as high as 11% with a corresponding density of more than 20 J/cm2. This technology presents a method for designing dynamic materials with tunable energy, antimicrobial, and optical properties.
Applications:
- Reusable biodegradable absorbent material
- Hygroscopic fabric that generate heat or energy
- Humidity sensors
- Encasing to waterproof electronics
- Cleanup material for environmental and disaster remediation
- Admixture with building materials for waterproofing or expansion/contraction cycles
- Food and product desiccant
Advantages:
- Biomaterial responsive to the environment
- Genetically engineered to obtain the best hydroscopic, hygroscopic, and physical properties for the desired application
- Antimicrobial activity
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending (US 20210197498)
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU19050
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu