Photosynthesis-assisted remodeling of three-dimensional printed structures.

ABSTRACT: The mechanical properties of engineering structures continuously weaken during service life because of material fatigue or degradation. By contrast, living organisms are able to strengthen their mechanical properties by regenerating parts of their structures. For example, plants strengthen their cell structures by transforming photosynthesis-produced glucose into stiff polysaccharides. In this work, we realize hybrid materials that use photosynthesis of embedded chloroplasts to remodel their microstructures. These materials can be used to three-dimensionally (3D)-print functional structures, which are endowed with matrix-strengthening and crack healing when exposed to white light. The mechanism relies on a 3D-printable polymer that allows for an additional cross-linking reaction with photo

SUBMITTER: Yu K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7826334 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature