Flow-induced 2D nanomaterials intercalated aligned bacterial cellulose
Flow-induced 2D nanomaterials intercalated aligned bacterial cellulose
Scientists at Rice University and the University of Houston have developed a groundbreaking technique to create stronger, more versatile bacterial cellulose by controlling how bacteria align cellulose fibers during growth[1][3].
The research team designed a rotational culture device that uses fluid flow to guide bacteria as they produce cellulose, resulting in aligned nanofibers with tensile strength up to 436 MPa - comparable to some metals and glasses[1]. By adding boron nitride nanosheets during synthesis, they created hybrid materials with even greater strength (553 MPa) and three times faster heat dissipation[1].
"Our approach involved developing a rotational bioreactor that directs the movement of cellulose-producing bacteria, aligning their motion during growth," said M.A.S.R. Saadi, the study's first author[^3]. The resulting material is flexible, foldable, transparent and environmentally friendly.
The breakthrough, published in Nature Communications in July 2025, offers a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics[1]. The single-step process is scalable and could enable applications in structural materials, thermal management, packaging, textiles, green electronics and energy storage[3].
[^1]: Nature Communications - Flow-induced 2D nanomaterials intercalated aligned bacterial cellulose