Smart bio-silica hybrids for stabilization of biologicals

Overview

SynMatter introduces a cutting-edge platform that stabilizes biological materials using smart bio-silica hybrids. This technology encapsulates biologicals within microplastic-free, GRAS-listed silica envelopes, significantly enhancing the stability and viability of cells and biomolecules. By offering protection against thermal, mechanical, and chemical impacts, these silica-bio-hybrid structures improve shelf life and resilience under challenging conditions. The customizable silica framework supports nutrients and bio-moieties, creating an environment conducive to preserving activity and function, thereby facilitating controlled biomass delivery and molecule traffic.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Microplastic-free envelopes: Made from GRAS-listed ingredients, ensuring environmental safety and compatibility.
• Hierarchical macro-/mesoporous structures: Support vegetative cells and biomolecules, preserving their activity and function.
• Robust protection: Safeguards biologicals from thermal, mechanical, and chemical stressors.
• Adaptable sol-gel process: Mild and biocompatible method for diverse biological stabilization.
• Enhanced nutrient availability: Ideal for applications involving gram-negative bacteria and biocontrol agents.

Technology readiness level

This technology currently stands at TRL 3. SynMatter plans to further validate and optimize the platform through collaborative efforts, including defining project parameters, stabilizing targets, measuring ex-situ properties, and scaling production for field testing. This structured validation approach aims to enhance performance and scalability, preparing the technology for subsequent development stages.