BioLab Studio develops 3D-printed 'bio scaffold' for growing mycelium

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California-based BioLab Studio has developed a revolutionary system that combines 3D printing technology with robotics to cultivate mycelium using 3D-printed wooden scaffolding. The system, called Bio Scaffold, is the brainchild of BioLab Studio founder Natalie Alima. Using a 3D program, the system constructs optimised scaffolding made from a mixture fortified with hemp fibres and coffee grounds. The wooden composite not only serves as a scaffold for the mycelium spores but also acts as a nutrient source. Additionally, Alima designed a robotic arm with a moisture sensor that maintains and moisturises the mycelium. This innovative technology has the potential for various applications, including insulation systems and temporary structures. With its sustainable design and efficient building process, the Bio Scaffold system presents an exciting breakthrough that bridges the physical and virtual realms.

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BioLab Studio develops 3D-printed ‘bio scaffold’ for growing mycelium

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Overview of BioLab Studio’s 3D-printed ‘bio scaffold’ system

BioLab Studio, a California-based company, has developed a revolutionary system that combines 3D printing, wooden scaffolding, and a robotic arm to cultivate mycelium. This innovative technology, known as Bio Scaffold, was created by the founder of BioLab Studio, Natalie Alima. It aims to facilitate the growth of mycelium using 3D-printed wood-fibre sculptures.

Development of Bio Scaffold by Natalie Alima

Natalie Alima, the founder of BioLab Studio, has a background in architecture and a strong passion for sustainable design. Her motivation to develop the Bio Scaffold system stems from her interest in creating architecture that biodegrades back to the earth and is intended to be consumed. Alima is committed to considering the afterlife of products and designing with the goal of returning them to the earth.

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Composition of the wood-fibre scaffolding material

The wood-fibre scaffolding material used in the Bio Scaffold system is optimized using a 3D program. It is a mixture fortified with hemp fibres and coffee grounds. The combination of these materials provides both structural support for the mycelium spores and a source of nutrients. Recesses are strategically calculated and incorporated into the scaffolds to promote or hinder the growth of the spores based on the structural needs of the final product.

Function of the wood composite in the system

The wood composite used in the Bio Scaffold system serves a dual role as a scaffold for the mycelium and a nutrient source. The structural needs of the final product influence the growth of the spores on the scaffolds. This function ensures that the mycelium grows in a way that aligns with the desired architectural form and enhances its structural integrity.

Design of the robotic arm for maintaining and moisturizing the mycelium

Natalie Alima has designed a robotic arm as part of the Bio Scaffold system. This robotic arm is equipped with a moisture sensor that enables it to maintain and moisturize the mycelium. The arm interfaces with the 3D-printed object to implant and provide moisture to the mycelium, ensuring optimal growth conditions.

Interaction between the robot arm and the mycelium

The interaction between the robot arm and the mycelium is a fascinating aspect of the Bio Scaffold system. Natalie Alima highlights that not only does the machine tend to the organism, but the organism also influences the movements of the machine. This mutual influence creates a language between the physical and virtual realms, where the machine and the organism communicate and respond to each other.

Testing of the system with small sculptures

To test the program and feasibility of the Bio Scaffold system, small sculptures were created as prototypes. These sculptures served as household objects and provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of the system. Through rigorous testing and evaluation, BioLab Studio continually refined the program and improved the functionality of the system.

Scaling up the technology for larger projects

Building upon the success of the small-scale testing, Natalie Alima, along with collaborators Roland Snooks and Hesam Mohammedd, are working to scale up the technology for larger projects. The team aims to apply the Bio Scaffold system to insulation systems in prospective buildings. By integrating mycelium into larger structures, they hope to demonstrate the potential of this sustainable technology on a broader scale.

Potential applications in insulation systems

The use of mycelium in insulation systems has gained significant attention due to its biodegradability and environmentally friendly properties. The Bio Scaffold system offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic and non-biodegradable insulation materials. By incorporating mycelium into the architectural design, buildings can benefit from the insulation capabilities of mycelium while minimizing their environmental impact.

Environmental sustainability and biodegradability of the system

One of the key features of BioLab Studio’s Bio Scaffold system is its environmental sustainability and biodegradability. Natalie Alima embraces nature throughout the design and creation process, showcasing its features and aesthetics. After a set period of time, the mycelium bursts through the wooden encasement, demonstrating its growth and adding to the overall visual appeal of the structure. Furthermore, the mycelium can be consumed, providing a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional building materials.

In conclusion, BioLab Studio’s 3D-printed ‘bio scaffold’ system represents a groundbreaking development in the field of architecture and sustainable design. Natalie Alima’s innovative approach to cultivating mycelium using 3D-printed wood-fibre sculptures, combined with the use of a robotic arm for maintenance and moisturization, opens up new possibilities for sustainable construction materials. The scalability of the technology and its potential applications in insulation systems further highlight its relevance in the pursuit of environmentally sustainable building practices. By integrating nature into the architectural design process, BioLab Studio’s Bio Scaffold system showcases a harmonious relationship between technology and the natural environment.

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