Materials synthesis utilizing biological processes

Abstract

The papers in this proceedings are devoted to the study and adaptation of biological processes for improved materials synthesis. Many different approaches are possible to achieve progress. In a straightforward approach, organisms can be used directly to produce materials either in raw form or as a finished product. In a more subtle approach, key concepts can be learned by observing biomaterials and biomaterial production. These ideas are adapted to improve existing synthetic materials or develop new processing schemes that do not directly involve the organism. Alternatively, the organs, cells, or enzymatic processes may be borrowed from the organism and used in conjunction with traditional methods of materials synthesis. This book has explored how knowledge of composite biological structures can be used by materials scientists to design superior composites with conventional materials and methods.