Plant cells-based biological matrix composites

TL;DR

This paper introduces biodegradable plant cell-based composites with mechanical properties comparable to wood and plastics, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrochemical-based materials.

Contribution

It presents a novel method to produce biological matrix composites from cultured plant cells with tunable properties and superior strength compared to similar-density commercial plastics.

Findings

Biocomposites have stiffness and strength surpassing polystyrene and low-density polyethylene.

Properties can be tuned by adjusting fabrication processes.

Filler particles can be integrated to modify mechanical response and functionalities.

Abstract

The global increase in materials consumption calls for innovative materials, with tailored performance and multi-functionality, that are environmentally sustainable. Composites from renewable resources offer solutions to fulfil these demands but have so far been dominated by hybrid petrochemicals-based matrixes reinforced by natural fillers. Here, we present biological matrix composites with properties comparable to wood and commercial polymers. The biocomposites are obtained from cultured, undifferentiated plant cells, dehydrated and compressed under controlled conditions, forming a lamellar microstructure. Their stiffness and strength surpass that of commercial plastics of similar density, like polystyrene, and low-density polyethylene, while being entirely biodegradable. The properties can be further tuned varying the fabrication process. For example, filler particles can be integrated during fabrication, to vary the mechanical response or introduce new functionalities.