Hyaline from Zymergen is a bio-based transparent film that is flexible, thin, and versatile.

Benefits

  • Reduced waste
  • High transparency
  • Temperature resistant

Applications

  • Touch screens
  • Camera lenses
  • Wearable sensors

UN Sustainable Development Goals Addressed

  • Goal 9: Industry Innovation & Infrastructure

  • Goal 12: Responsible Production & Consumption

Bioutilization

  • Bacteria

The Challenge

Electronics are everywhere these days, and many of them require a transparent barrier for protection from scratches and other damages. Traditionally, clear, rigid films are used but they are typically manufactured using petroleum-based products and chemicals, resulting in carbon pollution and toxic waste by-products. Additionally, these rigid films limit the flexibility of electronic devices.

Innovation Details

Hyaline is a bio-manufactured polyimide film. It is made of monomers produced through fermentation by engineered bacteria. The bacteria have novel genes inserted into their DNA to cause the production of the desired monomers. The monomers are joined to create a dynamic, transparent optical film with excellent mechanical properties that can be used to create foldable electronic devices.

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Biological Model

Fermentation is a process in which bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms chemically break down sugars to produce energy without using oxygen. Carbon dioxide, glycerol, lactic acid, and alcohol are all byproducts made during fermentation that can be further utilized in different applications. Humans have harnessed the process and byproducts of fermentation for thousands of years, often to make foods, like bread, cheese, and wine.