Design and synthesis of physical and chemical networks. We synthesize linear and hyperbranched polymers for self-assembly or chemical cross-linking into polymer networks. The long-term objective of this work is to understand how macromolecular architecture and composition affect the viscoelastic properties of hydrogels and the mechanical responses in thermosets. The fundamental developments we develop will lead to new hydrogels for drug delivery and bioprinting, and thermosets for structural components and adhesives.
Protein-based materials. We develop protein-based materials for additive manufacturing, which leverage protein functionality, intrinsic sustainability, and processability. Proteins can be incorporated into polymer networks to introduce unique properties to the material. For example, globular proteins like bovine serum albumin (BSA) can be used as mechanophores that release their stored length in response to mechanical force. These biomaterials are compatible with light-based 3D printing (vat photopolymerization) and enable the fabrication of biodegradable hydrogels and bioplastics with greater sustainability in the additive manufacturing life cycle.
Engineered living materials. Engineered living materials (ELMs) integrate engineered microorganisms into polymer matrices to afford a new function, performance, or property. We develop methodologies for fabricating ELMS (including additive manufacturing) to achieve novel material designs with new capabilities that cannot be achieved in abiotic systems. We utilize unique polymeric formulations, precision fermentation, and multi-material constructs for applications in continuous bioproduction, precision fermentation, therapeutic delivery, and bioremediation.