Materials can also perform photosynthesis, and 3D printing casts flexible photosynthetic materials

Photosynthesis usually refers to the process in which green plants absorb light energy, convert carbon dioxide and water into energy-rich organic matter, and release oxygen at the same time. Way. Although from the results, photosynthesis is only the process of plants producing nutrients or converting energy, but if we analyze from the principle and reaction process, it becomes very complicated. Even, from a historical point of view, the process of human research on photosynthesis is itself a process of human beings gradually understanding nature. Today, photosynthesis has penetrated deeper into various fields of scientific research, including the field of new materials. In fact, although photosynthesis is not special for plants, it is not easy for us to restore photosynthesis perfectly through existing scientific research technology, let alone use it for product development and production. . But just recently, 3D printing seems to help us realize the possibility of using photosynthesis to some extent. According to a report in Science Daily, an international team led by researchers at Delft University in the Netherlands has successfully printed algae into photosynthetic materials with toughness and elasticity using a 3D printer and the help of a novel bioprinting technology. . It is understood that this material consists of two parts, one of which is made of inanimate bacterial cellulose“printer paper”, it has many unique mechanical properties and can show good performance in flexibility, strength, shape memory; the other part is living microalgae. The printing process of the material is actually the process of combining living microalgae with bacterial cellulose components. The special material obtained in this way not only has good toughness and elasticity, but also is environmentally friendly. More importantly, it can also perform photosynthesis for a period of time. At present, this material is expected to be used in the fields of energy, environment, medical treatment, etc., and the future can be expected. Although, to some extent, this flexible photosynthetic material does not imitate photosynthesis in a real sense, but it further opens the door for mankind to use photosynthesis to achieve technological breakthroughs. In addition, 3D printing, as the main production method, also provides a new idea for the research and development of materials and the process of production. I think the emergence of this kind of material can not only have practical value in the fields of energy, environment and medical treatment, but also promote the advancement of biotechnology and new material research and development processes, and further promote the development of related scientific research industries.