Principles for a Microbial 3D Printer

Our project proposes the first steps to develop a 3D printing process which involves the synthesis and modification of materials from live microbes to make 3D functionally graded materials and objects.

Our vision it to create new type of 3D printing technology based on bacterial growth and self assembly of cellulose to create new materials and structures in energy efficient ways, with a range of different material types and properties, and in

complex composites which would be very difficult to create using more traditional manufacture. These materials will also be biodegradable and biocompatible.

The project will integrate genetically engineered microbes and the design and building a novel bioreactor as a new type of

3D printer. The project will establish the principles for this new 3D printing technology with potential applications in a wide range of areas including for biomedical applications, complex composites for high-performance manufacturing and novel consumer products.