Colloquium: Wouter Jacob van der Sluis (ASM)

The environmental cost of synthetic structural materials has driven the search for sustainable alternatives, particularly for ceramics, which typically require energy- and emission-intensive processing. Inspired by the nacreous layer of mollusc shells, this study explores a novel approach for fabricating advanced ceramic composites using additive manufacturing and mineral-depositing bacteria, aiming to reduce energy demands while enhancing mechanical performance. Challenges in printing ceramic-bacteria suspensions arise from the sensitivity of rheology to colloidal interactions and shear history. Preliminary results indicate successful biomineralisation, demonstrating the potential of the approach. Key criteria and improvements are established, including the existence of a 'printing window', the importance of pH control, and tuning flow behaviour to achieve the desired microstructure. Together, these findings form a stepping stone towards manufacturing sustainable, advanced ceramics inspired by Nature.

Supervisor: Dr. K. (Kunal) Masania