University of Houston researchers develop bacterial cellulose as potential biomaterial

In Texas, growing concern over the harmful effects of petroleum-based, non-degradable materials on the environment has intensified the demand for sustainable alternatives, such as natural or biomaterials. Bacterial cellulose has emerged as a potential biomaterial that is naturally abundant, biodegradable and biocompatible.

To strengthen the cellulose and create more functionality, a team of researchers from the University of Houston incorporated boron nitride nanosheets into the liquid that feeds the bacteria, and fabricated bacterial cellulose-boron nitride hybrid nanosheets with even better mechanical properties (tensile strength up to ~ 553 MPa) and thermal properties (three times faster rate of heat dissipation compared to samples).